E 

60 



iili 




iniii'Miwim 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



DDOiaaaTflss 



^^r. 



yV -V, 



^„^ 



-'i' 



■'y- V 



0' 



oo^ 



^^^ "^^ ^ 






'>■ 



^ 

.5 •'^>. 



■■^ ,<^ 



v^ 



^>. c^ 



vO' 






v\>' -^-, 



^■N -Kj. 



''j '^' 



■ 0-' 



.^> -^^^ 



■■^4 



'-/. ,<\^ 



^^ ,A^ 






-^y- V^^ 



aX> ■^> 









^^^" -^^^ 



A^^' 



^• </. 



■■'^>..^^ 






' " ' ' ^ ^ ^ ' " -? '^ 






.0' 



xX^- •>. 



.0 0. 



o 0' 






■- 















o"^ 'C/ 



sV^^ 



■A^^' 



■"- -vx^ 



A-'* 



i. A^ 



EXTRACTS FROM 
LETTERS 

TO 

A. B. T. 

FROM 

EDWARD P. WILLIAMS 

DURING HIS SERVICE IN THE CIVIL WAR 
1862-18G4 




NEW YORK 

FOR PRIVATE DISTRIBUTION 

1903 



c ) 
/ 



INTRODUCTORY NOTE. 

About three j-ears ago I had occasion to 
xaniine some boxes of old papers. In one of 
hem I found several packages of my ownlet- 
ers, written during my term of army-service. 
Ip to that time I was not aware of their 
reservation. After the birth of iny son, 
'ichard Everard, in January, 1902, it oc- 
urred to me that I ought to print, for his 
lenefit, some extracts from these letters, so 
hat, in lateryears, he might learn from them 
omething of the part, insignificant though 
I was, I had taken in the Civil War, nearh- 
jrty 3^ears before he was born. This little 
)ook is the result. 

E. P. W. 
lew York, Xuvcmbcr, 1003. 



Fort Wayne, Inu., Aug. 29, 1862. 
Yesterday I received a dispatch from In- 
dianapolis saying that Governor Morton had 
appointed me first Heutenant and adjutant of the 
One-hundredth Indiana Vokinteer Infantry. 
My commission will come in a few days. The 
(adjutancy is a very good position, and I am 
hetter qualified for it than for anything else. 
No colonel has yet been appointed. 

Fort Waym-;, Inu., Sept. 1, 1862. 
Have been in camp three days attending to 
duties. My commission came last Saturday. 
1 am the only officer of the regiment yet ap- 
pointed and commissioned. No one knows 
who is to be our colonel. 

Fort Wayne, Ind., Sept. 6, 1862. 
I understand Governor Morton has deter- 
mined to send no more troops out of the State 



until they are well drilled. If this is true, our 
regiment may be in the State some time yet. 
We may go to Indianapolis Saturday night, to 
be drilled, clothed and armed. We have only 
six hundred men now in camp. Have no idea 
who will be our field officers. 

Fort Wayne, Ind., Sept. 7, 18G2. 
A dispatch, received to-day, says we must 
be in Indianapolis by daylight to-morrow. 
We leave to-night. Have only six hundred 
men, however. Whether they will give us 
time there to recruit a full regiment, or consoli- 
date us with others, I do not know. Brother 
Henry's battery (Eleventh Indiana) has re- 
turned to Nashville. 

Camp Morton, Indianapolis, 

Sept. 10, 1SG2. 

Wrote you on Sunday before leaving home. 
Have had no time since to write, being so ex- 
ceedingly busy in arranging our camp and get- 
ting things in order. We are in the old camp- 
ground of the Confederate prisoners, which 
they left in a very filthy condition, and we 
have, therefore, lots of work to do to set 
things right. 

No more officers appointed, except the quar- 
G 



termaster, A. M. Tucker, from Elkhart 
county, a very gentlemanly and clever young 
man, who will make good company. Since 
coming here I have virtually been in command 
of our camp. 

We are to be mustered in to-morrow, and 
Captain Hough of the Regular Army has been 
appointed to take charge of, and drill, us be- 
fore going into the field. There is no telling 
how soon we may be ordered away. We are 
trying hard to remain until we are well drilled, 
and until the other four companies are recruit- 
ed, but I am afraid the exigency of the times 
will not permit us to stay so long. So far, I 
like the life very well, notwithstanding we left 
Fort Wayne in a terribly disheartening rain. 
Have very cold nights, and in the confusion of 
moving camp, none too much to eat. Still I 
get along first-rate. Am kept quite busy. 

Have seen none of my friends in Indian- 
apolis yet. We are fully two miles from the 
business part of the city. Have been in two or 
three times, but only on business for the regi- 
ment. 

Saw my cousin John Ball yesterday. He is 
just from Kentucky. Was Col. Topping's or- 
derly, fought at Richmond. Ky., was taken 



prisoner and paroled. Was here yesterday on 
his way home (Terre Haute). 

Camp Morton, Indianapolis, 

Sept. 12, 1862. 

I am rushed with business, having the work 
of several officers to do, and we are much 
cramped for quarters — four of us in a very 
small and leaky shanty. We are doing finely 
in camp, all happy and contented — the best lot 
of men I ever saw together. They govern 
themselves and need but little watching. No 
more officers appointed since my last letter. 
There is every prospect of our being here an- 
other week. Governor Morton and most of 
our military men are now in Cincinnati, look- 
ing after matters there. 

Have been in the city every day, but on busi- 
ness only. To-day, for the first time, took oc- 
casion to call upon the Mears and the Sheets 
families. 

Took a severe cold the first night I spent in 
this camp, the blankets sent out to us being a 
little bit damp. Am getting over it now. 

Father, when here, looked at several horse.s 
for me, but none suited. He went night before 
last to Goshen to buy a horse, which has been 

8 



very highly recommended. May possibly have 
it to-morrow. I need a horse very much, hav- 
ing to take in my report (two miles) every 
day. 

Nothing later from Col. Link. He was se- 
verely wounded and taken prisoner at Rich- 
mond, Ky., and is at the house of a wealthy 
Union man. We are expecting in a day or 
two, in our camp, aljout fifteen hundred of our 
men. paroled prisoners, from the Richmond 
fight, a great many of Col. Link's men among 
them. I suppose you know that Captain 
George Nelson and Adjutant Tared Bond are 
safe. 

Camp Morton, Indianapolis, 

Skpt. 25, 1SG2. 

We have now lively times in camp, having 
over three thousand troops, among whom is 
the remnant of the Twelfth Indiana (Col. 
Link's). Adjutant Bond, Captain Nelson, and 
Lieutenant Godown are here. Since the Louis- 
ville scare has passed, we have a good prospect 
of being here two weeks longer. Day before 
yesterday had another company mustered into 
our regiment, making now seven full com- 
panies. We are expecting every day to be 
9 



filled up with odd companies, and that our 
field officers will then be appointed. 

Col. Link's funeral took place yesterday in 
Fort Wayne. 

Camp Morton, Indianapolis, 

Oct. 3, 1862. 

Three companies were assigned to our regi- 
ment to-day, which makes us full, but our offi- 
cers have not yet been appointed, and will not 
be until the return of Governor Morton, who 
left last night for Washington. Will return 
in about ten days. 

I enclose a newspaper account of our review 
last Wednesday. Everything passed off ad- 
mirably, but I assure you I was very tired. 
Was in the saddle two hours in the morning, 
and from one o'clock until half after six in the 
afternoon — a pretty good ride for one not ac- 
customed to it. I was out in my full dress suit, 
the first occasion I had to make use of it. My 
horse took cold from being overheated, and 
was quite sick yesterday. Is much better to- 
day. 

Camp Morton, Indianapolis, 

Oct. 5, 1862. 

Nothing new in the regiment. Have now 
ten companies, numbering nine hundred and 

10 



fourteen men, and they are about equipped with 
every thing necessary for a march, except field 
officers. 

There was preaching this evening, but none 
during the day, the men having been kept busy 
cleaning up the grounds. The whole camp 
(thirty acres) was swept thoroughly. I do not 
approve of making the men work so much on 
Sunday. Have not been to church for two 
weeks, nor been out of camp since Thursday. 

My horse is entirely well. Dr. McKinney, 
the former owner, was here Saturday. He 
says the horse's name is "Bill." 

Camp Morton, Indianapolis, 

Nov. 2, 1862. 

On Friday all the troops about here were 
mustered for pay. When we shall receive the 
pay is another matter. We hope to have it 
soon, before we move. There has been some 
talk about moving us this week, but there is 
no certainty in regard to it. We are all getting 
tired of Camp Morton duty, which is now prin- 
cipally holding in check the rebellious among 
the paroled prisoners, three thousand of whom 
have lately come into our camp. We are anx- 
11 



ions too to join our four companies now in 
Kentucky, so that we may drill together. 

Mr. Case, you probcibly know, has declined 
his appointment (colonel). 

Mr. Peter P. Bailey was down to see us yes- 
terday. Sarah Mears and her brother drove 
down and made me a call on Wednesday. 

I am fast making a reputation for sobriety 
and reliability by my oft repeated refusals to 
drink. I make no boast of my teetotalism and 
no effort to make my sentiments known, yet 
my friends are learning that it is of little use 
to urge me to "take something." Not a game 
of cards have I played, nor drank a glass of 
liquor since coming into camp. 

Camp Morton, iNDiAXAroLis, 

Nov. 9, 1,SG2. 

We were all paid off yesterday, and had our 
guns exchanged for splendid Enfield rifles, the 
best gun T ever saw. 

To-day the four river companies moved out- 
side in tents. As soon as we receive the full 
complement of tents for the regiment, we shall 
be ready to leave. 

Rev. Mr. Munn has been appointed Chap- 
lain, and will be with us on Tuesday. Am 
12 



sorry to say we know no Sunday here." It is 
hard work every day. Never in all my life 
has time passed so rapidly as here. I am busy 
with something pertaining to the regiment all 
the time. 

When father was here we called upon Gen- 
eral Morris. He was then untlecided as to ac- 
cepting the commission of major-general. He 
promised me a staff appointment in case he ac- 
cepted. Since then, as you have seen in the 
newspapers, he has declined the promotion to 
major-general. 

Saw General Buell on the street yesterday. 

]\Iy pay for two months and five days, to 
Oct. 31, was two hundred and fifty-eight dol- 
lars. 

Enclosed is a copy of letter, received yester- 
day, from Major-Gencral Love. It was unso- 
licited and entirely unexpected. 

Headouarters, Indian a roLis, 

Nov. 8, 1862. 

Lieut. E. P. Williams, 

Adjt. 1 00th Reg. Ind. Vols. 
Sir, 

As your regiment is about to take the field, 
it is due to you to say, and I take pleasure in 
saying it, that for the two months you have 
i;5 



been in camp here, under by immediate su- 
pervision, you have discharged the duties of 
your office faithfully and efficiently ; that those 
duties have been more than usually responsible, 
growing out of the fact that for the greater 
part of the time, since the organization of your 
regiment, there has been no field officer on 
duty. With every wish for your success, 
I am Very respectfully 

JOHN LOVE. 
Maj. Genl. Ind. Legion. 

Cairo, Ills., Nov. 13, 1862. 

On board Steamer Iowa. 

Left Indianapolis Tuesday night at 8 o'clock. 
Came through to this place without change of 
cars, arriving at 3 o'clock this morning. All 
baggage is loaded, and we are off for Mem- 
phis in an hour. Are to report there to Major 
General McClernand. Expect to be in Mem- 
phis Saturday morning. Father and mother 
were in Indianapolis to see me, for two days 
just prior to the regiment's departure. 

Memphis, Tenn., Nov. 17, 1862. 
I dropped you a few lines from Cairo, and then 
expected to reach this place Saturday morning. 
Did not arrive, however, until Sunday morn- 
ing at 9 o'clock. The day was taken up with 

14 



moving, preparing the ground, and pitching 
our tents. Nor was our work finished many 
hours too soon, as it began to rain about dark, 
and has continued, at intervals, until now, with 
every prospect of another wet day to-morrow. 
Our camp-ground, on a clay bluff, about a half 
mile below the steamboat landing, is now 
ankle-deep in mud. 

The weather was delightful during our 
whole trip. There were no accidents and ev- 
erything passed off pleasantly. Owing to the 
very low stage of water, we were obliged to 
proceed cautiously and tie up at night. Three 
nights were thus spent upon the river. Several 
times we ran aground, and at one shoal place 
(Saturday morning) were obliged to disem- 
bark the regiment on the Arkansas shore, and 
march it some two miles down the river, and 
there wait for the boat to worry its way 
through. At this point we left the Continental, 
a large side-wheel steamer, drawing much 
more water than our boat. It had on board the 
Thirty-first Iowa, and had been more than two 
weeks making its way from Davenport. In 
some places there was barely five feet of water 
in the channel. 

Troops are pouring in fast. Two regiments 
15 



came just before lis, one just after, and an- 
other to-day. General McClernand is not here. 
I went with Lieutenant-Colonel Heath, im- 
mediately upon our arrival, to report to Gen- 
eral Sherman. He assigned us at once to the 
Second Brigade, Colonel McDowell, Sixth 
Iowa, commanding-, in General Denver's divi- 
sion. Our brigade is made up of the Sixth 
Iowa, Fortieth Illinois, Forty-sixth Ohio, Thir- 
teenth Regulars, and One-hundredth Indiana. 
Our regiment is the largest, the others averag- 
ing between five and six hundred only. 

Our destination is Vicksburg, overland 
route, I suppose, as we can hardly afford to 
await a rise in the river sufficient for trans- 
p(Miing us. The river is falling at the rate of 
six inches per day. When we move, we will 
be allowed but seven wagons to the whole regi- 
ment. The men must leave their tents and 
knapsacks. Only four wall-tents for field 
and staff' officers will be allowed. The au- 
thorities arc determined that we shall move 
fai't, and not be encumbered with long bag- 
gage-trains. 

Memphis is a pretty place, but everything is 
held at four prices, except negroes, who com- 
mand no price whatever. 
IG 



Lieutenant-Colonel Heath is highly pleased 
with our Chaplain, Mr. Munn, and compli- 
ments him highly. He (Munn) is becoming 
a great favorite with the men, owing to his 
constant attention to the sick uixjn the steam- 
er. The captain and clerk of the Iowa told 
Colonel Heath that he was the best chaplain 
they had ever seen. 

Before leax'ing lndianai)olis. General Mor- 
ris gave me a very flattering letter to General 
Reynolds, as did also Mr. Jackson, a friend of 
General Reynolds. Genl. Love, a copy of 
whose letter I sent you, is (juitc intimate with 
General Reynolds, and it is possible he may 
speak a good word for me. 

AIii.Mi-iiis, Tenx., Nov. 25, 18G2. 

We are all very busy to-day, having received 
marching orders for to-morrow at 8 o'clock 
A. M. We go south to Grenada, thence on to 
Jackson, Miss. The i)lan is to take Vicksburg 
by taking Jackson and cutting off supplies, in 
the same way that Columljus, Ky. was taken 
by the fall of Fort Donelson and Nashville. 
The whole force is under marching orders. 
With General Grant's army at Grand Junction, 
ours here, and another large force at Helena, 
17 



it is expected that we shall be able to sweep ev- 
erything before us to the Gulf, literally clear- 
ing out the Mississippi valley. We leave all 
our sick behind, and those who are likely to 
drop by the way. Take only shelter tents, 
though there is word this morning that we 
cannot be furnished with even these, and that 
at night we will occupy the houses, barns, cot- 
ton-sheds and tobacco warehouses, which we 
may find along the way. The wagons will 
carry only cooking utensils and provisions. 
The rest must be taken upon the backs of the 
men. 

The Twelfth Indiana (Captain Nelson's 
regiment), our neighbors at Camp Morton, ar- 
rived last night, and are under marching or- 
ders similar to ours. Five more regiments at 
Camp Morton are also destined for Grenada. 

Our sick list now reaches one hundred and 
ten. Three of our men have died since com- 
ing here. Change of climate and the heavy 
rains are probably the causes. I am well, and 
said to be getting stout. 

Took a ride around Memphis last Sunday. 
A quite pretty place with many fine busi- 
ness houses. Business is mostly done by He- 
brews, who have come here since the Federal 

18 



occupation of the city. Business is more brisk 
than I expected to see it. Sales of one Hebrew 
house, last week, were twenty-seven thousand 
dollars. 

Father has gone to Nashville to see Henry. 

I had an opportunity to go on the staff of 
Colonel McDowell commanding brigade, as an 
aide-de-camp, but would not accept the place, 
because the position is not permanent. The 
colonel may, at any time, be deprived of his 
command, and his staff be returned to their 
several regiments. 

No colonel appointed yet for us, so far as 
we know. 

On Sunday saw George McCagg, Lieutenant 
of Company A, Chicago Light Artillery. His 
battery has been here since last July. 

There are certainly a few good Union ladies 
here, as their faithful attendance on our sick 
in the hospital will testify. 

We have a house set apart for our sick. One 
lady drives there daily, sends her carriage 
home, and goes to work in earnest. As we 
came here without surgeons or hospital stores, 
and as there was some trouble in being fur- 
nished here, she told us that our sick must be 
attended to, and went herself to the medical 

19 



director, and gave him a good talking-to. 
Also, she told Colonel Heath that her income 
was five hundred dollars more than sufiicient 
for her support, and that amount we should 
have for the comfort of our sick. Pretty good 
for a Southern lady ! Northern women seldom 
do hetter. This, however, is an exceptional 
case. INIost of the people are bitter secession- 
ists. Another instance I had almost forgotten. 
When our quartermaster and I were riding in 
the suburbs on Sunday we met, in a buggy, a 
gentleman, about sixty years of age, and his 
daughter. As we approached they saluted us 
with their sweetest smiles, merely, I suppose, 
l)ecause they recognized us as Union officers. 
This exhibition of good-will was indeed re- 
freshing, after meeting so many glum-looking 
people in the streets of Memphis. 

Ciiri-AiioMA, Miss., Dec. 1, 1SG2. 
Just one week ago to-morrow I wrote you 
from Memphis. i\s indicated in that letter, 
we marched out (jf Memphis on Wednesday, 
Nov. 26. Our whole army was under General 
vSherman, and moved out upon three roads. 
The other divisions joined ours the next day, 
about ten miles out. Our first night was spent 
20 



in the open air; not even the colonel's tent was 
pitched, our baggage train having been de- 
laved. Our camp was in the woods and we 
slept upon leaves with our feet to the lire. I 
took my saddle for a pillow, wrapped my over- 
coat and lilanket around me, and turned in. I 
assure you I have seldom slept warmer, or bet- 
ter, notwithstanding it was clear and cold — • 
cold enough to make ice. 

Our first day's march was but seven miles, 
the second seventeen miles, a rather hard one 
for our green regiment. Saw on this day, for 
the first time in my life, cotton growing in the 
field. Vast cjuantities are going to waste for 
the want of hands to pick it. In some places 
we saw where large piles of cotton had been 
Inirned by the Confederates. In others, where 
the cotton was all ready for firing, but the 
Confederates Jiad not had time to finish their 
work. As I mentioned l)efore, on the second 
day we were joined l)y the other divisions. 
Smith's and Lauman's. The Twelfth Indiana 
is in Lauman's division. Saw Adjutant Bon.d 
and Lieutenant Godown. Captain Nelson had 
been left in Indianapolis on business. Water 
we found scarce and very poor. At our sec- 
ond camping place (Coldwater), however, we 
21 



found plenty and very good. This night, as 
the previous one, was spent in the open air, 
and with the same good effect. Next day 
marched fifteen miles to Red Sand Bank 
Creek. Roads good and weather splendid. 
This day our division was in advance of the 
army. Our brigade was second in division 
and our regiment in advance of brigade. At 
Red Sand Bank Creek found first-rate water 
and plenty of it. Spent Saturday there, rest- 
ing. Buried one of our men who died from 
eating raw turnips. 

Yesterday moved eight miles to this village. 
Chulahoma is southwest from Holly Springs, 
and is farther south than our land forces have 
ever been on this side of the Mississippi River. 
We are moving to join General Grant on the 
Tallahatchie River, where, it is said, we will 
find the enemy. We are now ten or twelve 
miles from the river. General Sherman's army 
is about twenty thousand strong, and General 
Grant has, according to report, forty thousand. 
General Steele, from Helena, on the Missis- 
sippi River, will also join us with twenty or 
thirty thousand men. We are expecting to 
hear from him every day. The Confederate 
pickets retreat before as we advance. Only 

22 



yesterday morning five hundred of the enemy's 
cavalry were here, and as we approached 
Chulahoma our advance cavalry chased sev- 
eral of them across the creek. 

We are subsisting on the enemy as we go. 
Horses, wagons, mules, corn, fodder, cattle, 
in short, all things we need, are impressed into 
service. Our quartermasters give receipts, 
which will be paid by the Government upon 
proof of the loyalty of the owners — something 
they cannot very easily furnish. Our men con- 
fiscate some things upon their own hook, such 
as pigs, chickens, turkeys, honey, sugar, mo- 
lasses, sweet potatoes, and occasionally a calf, 
or a sheep. We are "living gay," I assure you. 
Remember too that this is the land of persim- 
mons, which are just now ripe. 

Negroes are "sticking" to us daily. Left 
Memphis with none. Now have sixty, or sev- 
enty, in the regiment. The colored people are 
delighted to see us, and even the secessionists 
treat us civilly. 

The people of Chulahoma have almost en- 
tirely deserted the place. Two abandoned 
drug-stores and one grocery have been taken 
possession of by our troops. In one of the 
drug-stores, to-day, I picked up a diploma 

23 



which had been issued 1:>y the Medical College 
of Louisville, Ky., to Jacob L. Mabry, in the 
year 1841.* Also found a plot of survey for 
the Chulahoma Seminary grounds. These 
documents I enclosed in letter to mother to- 
day. 

Had a heavy storm last night with much 
wind. Came near having our tent blown 
dowm and ourselves drowned out. 

Six thousand of our troops were sent out 
to-day to make a reconnaissance. Have not 
learned the result. We are encamped in a 

*The followintj letter wns piililislicd in The Smith, 
IIol]_v SprinsTs, Marshall Co., Miss., Noveniljcr 20, 1902. 
Cluilahonia is also in Marshall Connt^', but has no 
newspaper. 

Nov. 12TII, 1002. 
To the Editor of The vSouth : 

Sir: — When General Sherman's troops entered Cliu- 
lahonia, November P.Oth, 1SG2, amon,<x them was the 
lOOth Indiana Infantry, of which I was an oillcer. 
The next day when strolling abcjut the town, I entered 
an abandoned drng-store and picked up from the floor 
a medical diploma, which I mailed to ni}' home in 
Indiana. Lately, in looking through a box of old 
papers, I came across this diploma. It was issued 1)\' 
the Medical College of Louisville, Kentucky, in the year 
ISll, to Jacob L. Mabry. I should like very nuich to 
return it to Doctor Mabry, or, if he is not living, send 

24 



very strong position and are ready for the 
enemy from any direction. 

It is uncertain whether we shall march in 
the morning or not. To-morrow a wagon- 
train will leave for Holly Springs, ten miles 
distant. The mail goes by this train, the first 
opportunity for sending letters since leaving 
Memphis. From Holly Springs there is rail- 
road communication direct to Columbus, Ky. 

Frank Sturgis, son of Solomon Sturgis, of 
Chicago, is with the Division-quartermaster. 
Is buying cotton. 

it to some member of his family, or to some relative, 
should any such desire to have it. 

Edw.\rd p. Williams, 

524 Fifth Avenue, 

New York City. 
In reply to the above communication, a letter was 
received from Miss Katherine A. Walker, Galena, Mar- 
shall County, Miss., stating that Doctor Mabry vi'as 
dead, and suggesting that the diploma be sent to his 
daughter, Miss Lizzie Lee Mabry, Senatobia, Tate 
County, Miss. (Tate County adjoins Marshall Count}'). 
The diploma was sent by registered mail, November 
25, 1902, and in due time a letter of acknowledge- 
ment was received from Miss Mabry, expressing her 
thankfulness and her joy over the recover}' of her 
father's long lost diploma. And so, at last, the diiiloma 
was restored to the famih' of Doctor Mabry after 
being in the pos.session of a stranger for forty years. 



We know nothing of what is going on in 
the North. Have seen no newspaper since 
leaving Memphis. 

Weather and roads have been all we could 
wish. 

Some of our troops have behaved very bad- 
ly, burning fences, corn, houses, and even 
churches have not been spared. Our line of 
march from Memphis is marked for years to 
come. I hope I may never live on the line of 
march of any army. Where an army en- 
camps, everything for miles around is literally 
swept away. 

In the field, Mississippi, 

Tuesday, Dec. 2, 1862. 

Left Chulahoma this morning at eight 
o'clock, and, after a march of nine miles, en- 
camped about half a mile from the Talla- 
hatchie River, soon after noon. Rained nearly 
the whole day, and the roads are getting bad. 
It is quite cold and very disagreeable. Our 
men stood the march well, and have made for 
themselves shelter tents with their rubber 
blankets. Are learning fast to accommodate 
themselves to circumstances. 

We are on the Ferry road, several miles be- 
low the railroad-bridge. The Confederates 
26 



skedaddled from here last Sunday, after burn- 
ing the raih'oad-bridge and cutting in two the 
ferryboat. Heard cannonading this after- 
noon. Afterwards learned that General Grant 
has crossed the river near the railroad-bridge, 
and was pursuing the enemy near Abbeville, 
six or seven miles from us. The firing was 
there. Our troops are busy building a bridge 
at this point. We are to push on, and join 
General Grant as soon as possible. 

Wednesday, Dec. 3. 
Are still here. Rain stopped and sun shin- 
ing splendidly. Roads drying up. Went over 
this afternoon with our colonel to visit the 
Twelfth Indiana, which is just half a mile 
back of us. Saw Lieutenant Godown and Ad- 
jutant Bond. Captain Nelson has not yet 
joined the regiment. Bridge will be finished 
about midnight, and we shall probably move 
again in the morning. Four of our companies 
were out to-day on a foraging expedition. 

Thursday, Dec. 4. 
Still in camp. Weather changed. Slow, 
steady rain all day. Bridge completed. Gen- 
eral Sherman went over to-day to consult with 
27 



General Grant, and returned late this evening 
with marching orders for his army at 7.30 
A. M. to-morrow. Confederate General Price is 
reported near us with eighty thousand men. 

Friday, Dec. 5. 

Rained all night, and the storm closed with 
a sprinkling of snow. Hard night on sol- 
diers. Marched to-day nine miles through 
terribly muddy roads to College Hill, which w'e 
reached about 2.30 p. m. The country about 
here is much better than any w^e have seen 
since entering the State. Have passed several 
very substantial and comfortable looking resi- 
dences. College Hill contains but a few 
houses, and is quite pretty. Four and a half 
miles from here is Oxford, on the railroad. 
General Grant's army, or rather his advance 
guard, is there. It is expected that the rail- 
road will be finished and running to that point 
shortly. Shall then have direct railroad com- 
munication with the North. All are getting 
anxious to see a newspaper. Everything at 
home may be all right, or the reverse, but it is 
all the same to us. We are in blissful ignor- 
ance of the doings of the world. 

28 



About two miles this side of the river we 
passed unfinished earthworks, which the Con- 
federates had thrown up only last week. They 
had impressed all the negroes throughout the 
country for that purpose. 

S.\TURDAY, Dec. 6. 

Have been at College Hill all day. Are out 
of hard-bread, and must wait until the wagon- 
train arrives from Holly Springs. 

Heard to-day that General Steele had 
marched from Helena and taken Granada, 
driving out General Van Dorn's forces, and 
capturing the General's private baggage. Gen- 
eral Price is therefore between Steele and us. 
Bread-train came to-night. 

Sunday, Dec. 7. 
Clear and cold. The ground froze very hard 
last iwght. Were all reviewed to-day by Gen- 
eral Grant. Mr. Munn preached to us in camp 
this afternoon. There was also preaching last 
night and to-night in the village church. Our 
camp is on the College grounds. The men are 
making sad havoc, cutting down the beautiful 
grove for fire-wood. The College is now rep- 
resented by a small brick school-house about 
twenty by forty feet. 

29 



Our mess is living first-rate just at present. 
Have corn-bread, fresh beef and fresh pork, 
tea, coffee, sugar, molasses, honey, sweet and 
Irish potatoes, dried peaches, etc. Our great 
want here is good water. 

Learned to-night that the mail will leave to- 
morrow morning for Holly Springs. Have no 
news from the North since leaving Memphis. 
Don't know when we shall leave, or where we 
are going. Some think we will march across 
the country to the Mississippi and take boats 
for Vicksburg, while General Grant, with a 
portion of his forces, moves upon Jackson. 

Am perfectly well, and have been all the 
time. My horse is all right. Saw Ed. Morri- 
son of Fort Wayne to-day. Is in our brigade, 
a private in Forty-sixth Ohio. 

In the field, Mississippi, 

Monday, Dec. 8, 1862. 
Another day at College Hill. Our Generals 
do not seem to know where the enemy has 
gone, and are at a loss to know what to do. 
Weather beautiful. 

Tuesday, Dec. 9. 
General Sherman returned to-day to Mem- 
phis with General Morgan L. Smith's divi- 
sion. There, I suppose, he will take boats for 

30 



Vicksburg. The Thirteenth Regulars were de- 
tached from our brigade and added to General 
Sherman's force. General Denver has now 
command of this corps, composed of his own 
and Lauman's divisions, and Colonel Mc- 
Dowell, lately commanding our brigade, 
now commands the division. General Sher- 
man gave us a parting review at two o'clock 
this afternoon. 

The quartermaster and I rode to Oxford to 
visit some of our Indiana regiments. Oxford 
is a quite pretty place, though very hilly and 
broken. Is about the size of Oxford, Ohio. 
The railroad is now running to Holly Springs, 
and will soon be finished to Oxford. The mail 
and the Chicago newspapers are received daily 
at Oxford, only four days old. We obtained 
Chicago Tribune and Cincinnati Commercial 
of the 5th — a great treat, I assure you. The 
only papers seen since leaving Memphis. 

It is understood that our corps will march 
straight across the country for the mouth of 
the Yazoo River. 

Wednesoay, Dec. 10. 
Another day spent in inactivity, and our fine 
roads and beautiful weather are not being im- 
proved. Our colonel went over to Oxford and 
31 



l)rouii:}it us the Chicago Tribune of the 6th, but 
no mail. 

Have niarchint^ orders at last. Leave to- 
morrow morning at nine o'clock. We all like 
our new commander, General Denver, very 
much, and think he will push us through fast. 
We go probably to mouth of Yazoo River. 
You need not, therefore, expect another letter 
from me until we reach that point, as there 
will be no (Ji)p(M-tunity to write sooner. You 
must pay the postage on this, as I have no 
stamps. 

Camp nkak kaii.koad, one miljc .north of 

Tai.i.ahatchik Rivek, Dec. 2G, 1MC)2. 

My last letter to you was dated a week and 
a half ago at camp Yocknai)atalfa, and was 
sent north with a lieutenant of the Sixth 
Iowa. * 

Everything remained quiet there until 
last Monday morning, when we were ordered 
to make the north bank of the Tallahatclne 
River by Tuesday night. We nKjved at 7 a. 
M. and camped on Tobytuby Creek (eighteen 
miles) at 3 v. m. We had been ordered to 



This letlcr never reached its destiiiatioii. See letter 
dated Jan. 25, 18G3. 

32 



cross the Tallahatchie at Wyatt, where we had 
built a bridj^^e on our way down, but on reach- 
in j^^ Tobytuby Creek [i courier from General 
Mcl'herson met us with orders to bear to the 
east, and cross the river at Abbeville, the 
bridge at Wyatt having been burned. Were 
off at daylight, passed through College Hill, 
leaving Oxford on our right, and reached our 
present camp (lifteen miles) by 2 p. M. This 
two days' march was very severe on our men, 
owing to the hilly roads, and their having been 
so many days idle at Yocknapatalfa. All our 
regiments straggled considerably. 

(Jur division (General Denver's) was far- 
ther south than any other, being sixteen miles 
south of Oxford. The railroad was finished 
to within a few miles of us and we had already 
heard the whistle of the engine, when the 
news came of the shameful disaster at Ihjlly 
Springs and the destruction of all our stores 
At this juncture, our forces were ordered to 
fall back beyond the Tallahatchie. On Mon- 
day, Tuesday, and Wednesday, there was a 
CDiitinual stream of soldiers and wagons, from 
daylight until eight o'clock at night, crossing 
the river at this point. The troops are now all 
over. All the cotton has been brought up 
3:5 



from Oxford, and all the railroad-bridges 
have been destroyed as far up as Abbeville, 
which is three miles south of the river. The 
trestle-work, built by our troops across the 
river, is one-eighth of a mile in length. This 
too will probably be destroyed by us as soon as 
the cotton can be carried away. 

The Confederate fortifications are very 
strong, and principally on the south bank of 
the river, covering the bridge and touching the 
railroad track on its west side. On the north 
bank, guarding the approach to the bridge, are 
strong earthworks for one battery. North of 
river, for a half-mile, is a low wet bottom with 
very dense woods. On the first high ground, 
three-quarters of a mile from river, were two 
batteries connected by rifle pits. None of the 
fortifications mentioned had been entirely fin- 
ished. The reason the Confederates abandoned 
them was not from any want of strength, but 
because General Sherman's army from Mem- 
phis was about to cross the river at Wyatt, ten 
miles west, thus turning their left flank and 
getting in their rear. It would have required 
very hard work to force them back by a move- 
ment directly in front. 

A railroad-train passes us three or four times 
34 



a clay. It does our boys good to see it, having 
had no such sight since we left Cairo. 

Just on the other side of the river, guarding 
the railroad-bridge, we saw the Twelfth In- 
diana, which was separated from us at Wyatt. 
as we went down. They are entirely isolated, 
belonging to no division, or brigade. General 
Denver has requested General Grant to assign 
them to his division. We have every hope 
that this request will be granted. 

Colonel Reub. Williams of the Twelfth In- 
diana and his quartermaster were in Holly 
Springs on business at the time of the "sur- 
prise," and were taken prisoners and paroled. 
This is the third time for Colonel Williams, 
and it annoys him immensely. Our sutler was 
also, there, but fortunately without any goods, 
and with only eighty dollars in money. This 
was taken from him and also eleven hundred 
dollars left with him by a cotton-buyer to pay 
for cotton. The Confederates even paroled our 
sutler, which, of course, amounts to nothing, 
except to prevent him from enlisting, of which 
there was never any danger. Since we have 
been here, he has been down to see us and gave 
an interesting account of the way everything 
went at Holly Springs. Value of cotton de- 
35 



stroyed three million four hundred thousand 
dollars, all belonging to speculators, from 
whom was also taken one hundred and fifty 
thousand dollars in money. The Confederate 
force was about eight thousand cavalry and 
mounted infantry. The garrison at Holly 
Springs was small, but ample to at least have 
held the enemy in check until reinforcements 
could come up, had any precautions whatever 
been taken by the colonel commanding the 
place. The colonel's name is Murphy, from 
Wisconsin, and he was taken prisoner in his 
bed. We are now cut off from supplies, and 
are on half rations. Cannot tell when our com- 
munication will be reopened. 

To-day a train of three hundred wagons 
guarded by five thousand men, started from 
Holly Springs (fifteen miles distant), for 
Memphis, for provisions. Our quartermaster 
went with them. He had started to Memphis, 
while we were yet at Yocknapatalfa, to get 
our tents, but went no farther than Oxford, 
being stopped by the dash on Holly Springs. 

Our division has received no mail since leav- 
ing Memphis. Nor has the Twelfth Indiana. 
It is rumored that a mail for us was destroyed 
by the Confederates at Holly Springs. 
36 



The weather has been quite warm and de- 
hghtful — scarcely any need of fire. The roads 
are splendid. It is raining hard to-day, however, 
Last evening (Christmas) I took tea with Cap- 
tain George Nelson and Lieutenant Godown. 
It was warm enough to set our table out of 
doors. I have made the Twelfth Indiana sev- 
eral visits, and Captain Nelson and Adjutant 
Bond have been over to see us. The boys of 
the Twelfth from Fort Wayne are all well 
and hearty. 

All the plans for our campaign are to be 
changed, and there is no knowing what will be 
done with us. For the present, until communi- 
cation with the world is opened, we shall re- 
main here. 

This is the fifth letter I have written you 
since leaving Memphis (one month to-day). 
Do not know when, or how, this will leave 
here. 

Dr. McGee, our second-assistant-surgeon, 
has joined us and brought with him his wife. 
He is a lately married widower, which accounts 
for his bringing his wife into the field. 

Saturday, Dec. 27. 

The Twelfth Indiana has been assigned to 
our division by General Grant. We are all 

37 



delighted with the prospect of having the 
Twelfth so near us, as it is made up, principally, 
of Fort Wayne boys. 

We expect to leave here to-morrow, or next 
day, for Lafayette or Moscow, on the railroad 
between Memphis and Grand Junction. Mili- 
tary authorities have determined to open and 
repair this railroad, over which to receive sup- 
plies, and will probably abandon the other 
road to Columbus, Ky. One brigade of our di- 
vision will go to Lafayette, thirty-one miles 
from Memphis, the other to Moscow, thirty- 
nine miles from the same city. We do not 
know certainly to which point we will be as- 
signed. Will probably build log-huts and go 
into winter quarters until the wet season is 
over. We are pleased with the prospect of 
getting so near Memphis and to a place where 
we can have a daily mail and daily newspapers. 

Holly Springs, Miss. 
Wednesday, Dec. 31, 1862. 

On Sunday afternoon, just as we were get- 
ting ready to attend divine service, we were 
ordered to break camp and move. Marched 
seven miles, and camped at Lumpkin's Mills a 
little after 7 p. m. It was a clear, cold, bright 
38 



moonlight night. The Lieutenant Colonel and 
I did not pitch our tent, but made our beds out 
of doors between the ridges of a corn-field, not 
yet dry from the heavy rains received a day or 
two before. I must say that I never slept bet- 
ter, or warmer, in my life. We had one bed- 
tick filled with cotton, and another with corn- 
shucks, and with plenty of blankets, we bid de- 
fiance to the heavy frost which that night whit- 
ened everything around us. 

Moved at daylight, and reached Holly 
Springs (seven miles) at lo a. m. Intended 
going six miles farther, but General Grant 
changed the order, sending General McAr- 
thur's division to guard railroad at Moscow and 
Lafayette, and ordering General Denver to re- 
main here. Here we are on a very pleasant 
camp-ground. The men have made themselves 
comfortable little houses, like dog kennels, with 
their rubber blankets and what lumber they 
found on the ground. There is one wall-tent 
to every three officers (one to a company). 
Two small houses within the camp limits are 
used for hospital purposes. Some think we 
shall remain here all winter. But as there is 
nothing certain in war, I make no predictions. 

The most pleasing event to all of us, since 
39 



our campaign began, was the receiving of our 
first mail from the North, which we found 
here on our arrival. Four letters were re- 
ceived from you, two from father, one from 
mother, and one from brother Meade. Father 
writes that Henry is now an aide on General 
Van Cleve's staff. 

One of our captains (Rhodes of Auburn), 
left sick in Memphis, died there on December 
loth. 

At our last camp we came very near losing 
four of our saddle-horses, mine among the 
number. They had pulled up the stakes, to 
which they were tied, and had strayed off. 
One was the colonel's, one the major's, one the 
quartermaster's, and the other mine. When 
the regiment was ready to move the horses 
had not been found. So the sergeant-major, 
four of the boys, and I, remained behind to con- 
tinue the search. The sergeant-major and I 
took a road leading west and soon found the 
major's horse, but the others could not be seen. 
The major's horse was sent back, while we 
continued on and on, for about four miles until 
we struck another road leading to Holly 
Springs, six miles distant. The horses were 
given up as lost, and we turned our faces 
40 



toward Holly Springs, which we reached about 
12 o'clock (noon). We had not been in camp 
long, however, before all were brought safely 
in by an artillery man, who, in looking for some 
of his own horses, had found ours. They had 
gone several miles across the railroad in exact- 
ly the opposite direction to that which I had 
taken. The quartermaster's horse had lost his 
halter. All else was safe, and we congratulat- 
ed ourselves upon our good fortune. The 
tramp of ten miles was of much benefit. 

To-day all the troops were mustered for pay, 
as is the custom at the end of every two months. 
We think it probable that the paymaster will 
visit us soon after railroad communication is 
established, as this army has not been paid for 
six months. 

The Twelfth Indiana is camped quite near 
us, and we see Captain Nelson and the rest fre- 
quently. 

I am increasing in weight, and have not been 
sick a day since I received my commission. 

Friday, Jan. 2, 18G3. 
New Year's day was not much observed in 
the army. It was quiet, and all the officers 
were busy making out their pay-rolls and 
41 



monthly returns. Though always kept pretty 
close to my office, I think I had more husiness 
than usual yesterday. 

Have not yet been up town to see what 
Holly Springs looks like. Should judge, how- 
ever, it is quite a pretty place of about four 
thousand people. The country around about 
is hilly. 

It is thought the railroad will soon be fin- 
ished to Memphis, and that the first mail will 
leave here on Monday next. 

This letter goes by private conveyance early 
in the morning. 

Have just received notice that I am to be 
detailed to-morrow as an aide on the staff of 
Colonel John A. McDowell, commanding our 
brigade. Not much of a position, but a good 
place to make acquaintances, and it will prob- 
ably be a stepping-stone to something better. 

Wolf Creek, southeast of 

Grand Junction, Jan. 7, 1863. 
Have time to write only a few lines to send 
by a captain of the Sixth Iowa, who goes to 
Memphis in the morning. This is my sixth 
letter. The last was quite lengthy, from Holly 
Springs, carried north by Parson Goodwin of 
Indianapolis. 

42 



On Sunday last received an order detailing 
me as aide-de-camp on Colonel McDowell's 
staff — the detail to date back to Jan, ist. 
Moved over same day order was received. 
Like the position very much. Colonel McDow- 
ell is from Keokuk, Iowa, and is a brother of 
General Irvin McDowell now in Virginia. 

Left Holly Springs yesterday morning and 
moved fifteen miles northeast to Salem. To- 
day marched nine miles north to this creek. 
Will probably be here a day or two. It is 
thought we will go to Corinth, Tenn. 

Have heard some of the details of fight at 
Vicksburg. General Morgan L. Smith, severe- 
ly wounded, was with us until General Sher- 
man turned back from College Hill. The only 
time I ever saw General Smith, he was superin- 
tending the bridge-building at Wyatt. Was a 
fine man and a good general. 

At Holly Springs, the night before we left, 
I saw, for a few hours, my cousin Arthur Men- 
denhall, in the Fourteenth Illinois. We had 
not met for twelve years. 

Headquarters Second Brigade, 
Grand Junction, Tenn., Jan. 13, 1863. 

On Sunday last it was my good fortune to 

receive seven letters — two from home and five 

43 



from you. My last letter to yon was from our 
last camp, five and a half miles southeast of this 
place. 

We arrived here last Friday, Four regi- 
ments and one battery of our brigade are here. 
The remaining regiment and the other battery 
are at Davies' Mills, six miles south, on the 
railroad to Holly Springs. The other brigade 
is at Lagrange, three and a half miles west, on 
the railroad to Memphis. General Denver's 
headquarters are at Lagrange. 

We are now once more in communication 
with the world. The railroads to Memphis 
and Columbus are both in operation, and a mail 
is received every day. 

Our business, for some time to come, will 
probably be to guard the railroad, and yet we 
may be ordered away in a week — so uncertain 
are the movements of an army. 

The army in the southwest has lately been 
reorganized, but the One-hundredth Indiana 
still holds the same place, McDowell's brigade, 
Denver's division. General Denver, I under- 
stand, is to have another brigade given him. 

General Denver visited our headquarters the 

44 



other day and took dinner with us. He is one 
of the i)lcasantest gentlemen I have ever met. 

I see by the newspapers that General Van 
Cleve was wounded in General Rosecrans' 
great battle. Henry was on his staff, and 1 am 
anxious to learn how he fared. 

My new position on Colonel McDowell's 
staff is a very pleasant one, so far as personal 
comfort is concerned. I have a good wall-tent 
all to myself, in which I can be as retired and 
quiet as I choose. 

I still keep well, and weigh one hundred and 
forty-seven pounds, two pounds more than 
ever before. 

The quartermaster of the One-hundredth In- 
diana met us here bringing with him, from 
Memphis, tents for the regiment, so that now 
the boys are pretty well fixed. Colonel Stough- 
ton, appointed to the colonelcy of the regi- 
ment, has not yet made his ai)pearance, nor has 
he written a word to the regiment. 

The contrabands here are more numerous 
than the soldiers. They flock-in from every 
direction, and move off daily, by hundreds, on 
the cars going to Memphis — men, women and 
children, of all ages. Poor creatures! I i)ity 
45 



their condition, and wonder what will become 
of them. They have a very indistinct idea of 
a "Land of Jnbiloh," to which they are tending-, 
but where it is, and when the "Jubiloh" will 
begin, they cannot even conjecture. They be- 
lieve that by this war their condition is, some- 
how, to be improved. I saw the other day an 
old man and an old woman, so infirm that they 
could scarcely hobble along, trying to find a 
place on top of bales of cotton on the cars. 
They were pushing on with the rest to the 
"Land of Jubiloh." When told that they 
would not live a year after going north, and that 
they had better stay at home, the old man re- 
plied that if he lived only one day there he 
would live that day a free man. 

Another incident worth mentioning. I saw 
yesterday, among the negroes about the rail- 
road station, a white woman of over fifty years 
of age. Her hair was gray and her face 
wrinkled, but she bore traces of having once 
been ciuite good-looking. I wondered how she 
came to be in the crowd of contrabands, and 1 
asked her the question. She said her children 
had all left home to go to Memphis, and that 
she wished to go along to look after them. 
46 



This reply served only still more to excite my 
curiosity, and I remarked that I did not know 
that any of the white people were leaving their 
homes and going north. She smiled and said, 
although she was white, she was a slave. That 
her father was a white man, but her mother 
had a little negro blood in her veins, sufficient 
to make her children slaves. I never before 
saw such an instance. Her lips were thin, her 
eyes clear, her nose thin, and no stranger would 
pronounce her other than a white woman. 

This morning I saw a slave whose hair and 
whiskers were as straight as mine, and whose 
complexion was as light. Our colonel took 
him for a white man, and so we all did. 

Weather here is as delightful as it is with 
you in September. 

Headquarters Second Brigade, 
Grand Junction, Tenn., Jan., 25, 1863. 

Colonel Stoughton of the One-hundredth 
Indiana arrived a few days since, bringing 
with him a letter from mother, besides several 
newspapers and the Atlantic magazine for Jan- 
uary. I assure you the latter were very accept- 
able and were greedily devoured. I have plenty 
of time for reading now. 
47 



Henry arrived home on the 14th on a short 
visit. General Van Cleve (wounded) had 
gone to Cincinnati to recover, thus giving 
Henry a fine chance to see his friends. 

Chauncey Oakley, mother writes, has re- 
signed his commission in the Eighty-eighth on 
account of poor health, and is now at home. 

Father has sent me two letters of introduc- 
tion to General Denver, and one to General 
Sherman from his brother the Senator. Think 
father will be down to see me about the first of 
March. 

The letter I wrote you from Yocknapatalfa, 
together with one to mother, were not carried 
north, as I had supposed, by private convey- 
ance, but were mailed in the ordinary way, and 
probably captured and destroyed by the Con- 
federates in their raid on Holly Springs. 

General Denver has gone north on a leave of 
absence for thirty days. This seems to make 
it a fact that we are fixed for the winter upon 
this railroad, and are to have no share in the 
fight at Vicksburg, unless perhaps we may be 
called upon to reinforce the army already on 
the way there. 'This latter, however, will hard- 
ly happen, as General Grant, with his seventy 
48 



thousand men and the co-operation of General 
Banks, will be able to do the work. 

Gkand Junction, Tenn. 

Feb. 23, 1S63. 

General Denver has returned, and I have pre- 
sented my letters of introduction. I don't know 
what it will all amount to. He told me that, 
when in Ohio lately, some of my friends had 
spoken to him of me. 

The troops at Corinth, Jackson, Grand 
Junction and Lagrange are now under the 
command of General Hamilton, and as he has 
done nothing but guard the railroad for a long- 
time past, it looks as though that would be our 
business for several months to come. It is my 
opinion that we shall have nothing at all to do 
with the taking of Vicksburg. 

Last Thursday night, about 9 o'clock, a ne- 
gro came in and informed us that Sol. Street, a 
noted guerrilla in this country, with fifty men, 
was then at his master's (McClellan's) house, 
six miles southeast of this place. Six compa- 
nies, under command of Major Miller of the 
Sixth Iowa, were sent out to trap the old fel- 
low. I went with them. The night was very 
dark, and when about half way out, Major Mil- 

40 



ler and the negro guide having pushed on so 
far in advance of the cokimn as to be out of 
sight, we mistook the road and turned off to the 
left. We followed this road about a mile before 
we discovered our mistake. This mishap de- 
layed us nearly two hours, and it was 3 o'clock 
in the morning before we reached McClellan's. 
The house was cautiously surrounded, but we 
were too late. The birds had flown about an 
hour before. Street is around enforcing the 
Conscription Act. He carried off McClellan and 
his son, and passed on to Saulsbury. Street is 
very bold and shrewd, and hitherto has defied 
all attempts to ensnare him. He makes it a 
point never to remain all of the night in the 
same place. We have no cavalry at Grand 
Junction. If we had two companies of cavalry 
1 am confident we could catch him. We could 
have followed him the other night had our 
force been cavalry instead of infantry. The 
negroes bring us word every day or two, of Sol. 
Street's whereabouts. 

Grand Junction, Tenn. 

March 1, 1863. 

Mother writes that General Van Cleve will 
not be fit for duty for thirty days, and Henry, 

50 



therefore, has another leave of absence. He has 
gone to join father at Boston, and intends vis- 
iting yon, and v^nll visit Princeton also. I wish 
I might have the privilege of visiting my 
friends. Perhaps I may have, when I have 
been in the service as long as Henry. 

Captain Harland, General Denver's adju- 
tant-general, was here Friday evening and told 
me that General Denver wished me on his staff 
as aide-de-camp. Colonel McDowell also said 
that the General had spoken to him of the mat- 
ter. I expect the order to-day. This position 
will take me entirely out of my regiment. My 
rank will continue the same, but if the General 
should be promoted to major-general, it will 
probably be raised to that of captain. I am 
gradually rising, and have no reason to com- 
plain. 

Colonel McDowell returned from Memphis 
on Friday, but has not resumed command of the 
brigade. His resignation papers have not yet 
returned from General Grant's headquarters, 
but he has no doubt that they will, in due time, 
be accepted. 

The cars now run through to Columbus, Ky. 
The train leaving there at 6 o'clock a. m. ar- 
rives here at 3 o'clock in the afternoon. 

51 



PIeadquarters First Division, Sixteenth Corps, 

Lagrange, Tenn., March 4-, 18G3. 

I wrote you in my last of my expected ap- 
pointment upon General Denver's staff. On 
that same clay (March ist) the order came. 
The next morning (Monday) I moved up, and 
here I am "as snug as a bug in a rug." Our 
headquarters are in a large two-story frame 
house. Captain Harland and I occupy one 
room together. 

To-morrow afternoon there will be a review 
of the troops in Lagrange by Generals Denver 
and Hamilton. 

No more troops are to be taken from this 
line of railroad to reinforce General Grant. 

The paymaster will be here in a few days, 
but will pay only to October 31st. The Twelfth 
and One-hundredth Indiana regiments were 
paid up to this time before leaving Indianapolis, 
and therefore will not receive any pay now. 

Lagrange, Tenn. 

ALvrch 8, 18G3. 

Do you want me to obtain a leave of absence 
to visit you? I would love to dearly, but it is 
next to impossible to get home now, unless 1 
am very sick and the surgeon should recom- 



mend it. Perhaps some time next summer I 
might possibly get away. 

Since I wrote you last (March 4th) several 
changes have taken place in the position of our 
division. A new brigade has been formed, 
named the First, in which is the One-hundredth 
Indiana, and Colonel Loomis, of the Twenty- 
sixth Illinois, is the commander. The Twelfth 
Indiana still belongs to the Second Brigade. 
General Lauman's division having moved near- 
er Memphis, our division has been strung out 
from Grand Junction to Collierville. The One- 
hundredth is somewhere near the latter place. 
The Twelfth Indiana and Fifteenth Michigan 
remain at Grand Junction. The Sixth Iowa 
and Forty-sixth Ohio are here. Our headcjuar- 
ters continue as before, at Lagrange. 

My friend Tucker, quartermaster of the One- 
hundredth, is now quartermaster of the First 
Brigade. This is a sort of promotion, analo- 
gous to my place with Colonel McDowell. 

Ed. Taylor of Columbus, Ohio, a schoolmate 
at Oxford, is now in Memphis, a captain in the 
Ninety-fifth Ohio. I hope to be able to visit 
him soon. 

I trust father will come to see me. I shall 
look for him now every day. 
53 



Enclosed is a profile view of my humble self 
drawn by our topographical engineer, a young 
German. I think it a good likeness. 

Lagrange, Texn. 
March 20, 18G3. 

From what I learn this morning there is to 
be quite a change here at headquarters, and I 
shall probably return to my regiment. General 
Denver has resigned and is going home. Gen- 
eral Wm. Sooy Smith, from General Rose- 
crans' army, I believe, is to succeed him. If 
General Smith does not bring with him a full 
staff I may get a position with him. When I 
wrote you some time ago that my position here 
was one that took me entirely out of my regi- 
ment, I was mistaken. It was merely a detail, 
the same as when I was on the staff of Colonel 
McDowell, still holding my place as adjutant of 
the One-hundredth Indiana. General Denver's 
other aide-de-camp. Lieutenant \\'illiamson of 
the Sevent3'-second Ohio, is in the same pre- 
dicament, although he has been with the gen- 
eral for nine or ten months. I cannot now go 
back to my old place in the Second Brigade for 
my regiment does not any longer belong to the 
Second Brigade, but to the First, and on the 

54 



First Brigade staff there are already two lieu- 
tenants from the One-hundredth. 

Should there be no place for me with Gen- 
eral Smith, I shall go back contentedly to my 
regiment, and wait for something to turn up. 

No one outside of the staff knows anything 
of General Denver's resignation, and probably 
will not for a day or two. Nor do I know yet 
upon what grounds he made his application. 

HE.\DOU.iRTERS FiRST DIVISION, SIXTEENTH CoRPS, 

L.\GRANGE, Tenn., March 23, 1863. 

Saturday's mail brought me a lot — one let- 
ter from father, four from you, and two news- 
papers from father. 

General Smith arrived on Friday and Gen- 
eral Denver left this morning (Monday). Gen- 
eral Smith brought with him an adjutant-gen- 
eral and a quartermaster. He wishes, however, 
to retain the old staff of General Denver. His 
adjutant-general had some time since sent in 
his resignation and is only waiting to hear from 
it. Captain Harland, General Denver's adju- 
tant, will therefore continue here and take the 
place of the other adjutant if his resignation is 
accepted. 

General Smith is a very pleasant gentleman 



and I think I shall like him. Is a graduate of 
West Point, and was colonel of the Thirteenth 
Ohio. Commanded General Nelson's old divi- 
sion in General Rosecrans' army. 

I shall continue here as aide-de-camp, and 
just now there is every prospect of our remain- 
ing here all Summer. 

Father writes that he will be down to see me 
about the first of April. 

Next Sunday (29th) I shall be twenty-five 
years of age. 

Lagrange, Tenn. 
March 27, 1SG3. 

Your good letter of the i8th I found await- 
ing me on my return last evening from Collicr- 
ville, where I had gone on the morning train to 
visit my old regiment, the One-hundredth. I 
found the boys on good camping ground, in 
fine health and spirits. Collierville is about 
twenty-five miles west of here, and half way 
between this place and Memphis. 

The more I see of our new General the more 
I like him. Though a West Point graduate he 
puts on no airs. Is kind and friendly in 
his manners, and has a great deal of good hard 
sense. Is thirty-three years of age, but looks 
56 



much younger. He continues me in the same 
duties I had under General Denver, viz; ex- 
amining the records of the cases as they come 
from the court-martial, and making up the or- 
ders thereon. 

My belief in the power of our Government 
and its ability to crush out this rebellion is 
stronger to-day that ever it has been since the 
war began. I believe also that this year will not 
close before the war is finished. Everything 
seems to be favorable to such a result. 

Yesterday, a young lady, attired in black, 
who lives near Holly Springs, Miss., came to 
Lagrange, and claiming to have had some 
mules stolen from her by our men, wished to 
recover them. General Smith was very accom- 
modating and polite, and had his quartermaster 
running about for half the day, hunting up the 
mules. I saw her this morning in the general's 
room and was much struck with her beauty. 
About an hour after she left here she was 
brought back by one of our picket guards. As 
she was passing out of the lines, the sentinel 
suspected that she had something under her 
dress which ought not to be there, and upon ex- 
amination, found tied to her crinoline a pair of 
Dicu's boots. You may be assured the beautiful 
57 



young lady was exceedingly mortified on con- 
fronting the general, who had shown her so 
much kindness. 

Lagrange, Tenn. 

Apkil 5 1863. 

Have had a bilious-ague attack during the 
past week, which has unfitted me for business, 
though I have not been confined to my bed. 
Am much better to-day, and think that I am 
now fairly over it. This is my only illness 
since that at your home, nearly two years ago. 

General Smith's wife, whom he lately mar- 
ried at Bowling Green, Ky., arrived here on 
Friday. She is tall, handsome and stylish. 
The general and his wife, and a lieutenant 
and his wife, have taken a house in another 
part of the town. There is some talk that I am 
to live with them, so as to be near the general 
should anything need immediate attention. 

Lagrange, Tenn. 

April 14, 1863. 

The responsibility in this court-martial busi- 
ness is more than I like to assume. Neither 
General Smith nor his adjutant-general has any 
knowledge of law, and they dislike the very 
mention of court-martial business. And even 
58 



of such questions of custom and usage in the 
army, as their long service ought certainly to 
qualify them to decide, they seem to know noth- 
ing, but throw it all upon me, who have been in 
the service but a few months. This makes my 
present position very embarrassing, and I have 
frequently wished myself back with my regi- 
ment. For, if I make a mistake, I thereby com- 
promise the general. This was not the state of 
things when General Denver was here. 

When I wrote you last I thought I had quite 
recovered from the ague, but I was mistaken. 
Last evening I had another hard chill. You 
have no idea how terribly blue these chills make 
me. 

Lagrange, TExNN. 

April 19, 1S63. 

On Thursday I was ordered to Memphis to 
attend to some business. Spent one day there 
and returned Saturday morning. I met in 
Memphis an old friend, Ewing Mears of In- 
dianapolis, who was there on business for a 
house in St. Louis. 

On my return to Lagrange I found that an 
expedition against a party of Confederates col- 
lected south of the Tallahatchie River, had 
started the day before. The force consisted of 

59 



infantry, artillery and cavalry. All moved 
light, without baggage, and with but five days' 
rations. General Smith commanded in person, 
and took with him his adjutant-general, aide- 
de-camp Williamson, and the topographical en- 
gineer. The quartermaster, commissary, Cap- 
tain Harland and myself were left behind. 
Colonel Loomis, commanding the First Brigade, 
is now in command of the division, Captain 
Harland acting as assistant-adjutant-general. 
Have heard nothing yet from the expedition, 
and probably shall not until it returns. Wheth- 
er successful, or not, it will not bear materially 
upon the result of the war. 

Lagrange, Tenn. 
Tuesday, April 28, 1863. 

Yours of the i8th received on Saturday, but 
I have been too busy to reply until now. On 
Sunday I frequently work as hard as on other 
days. This is a very serious objection to one's 
being in the army — there is no Sunday, and no 
church. 

Do not give yourself any uneasiness in re- 
gard to my health. I think I can safely say that 
I am rid of the ague, not having had a chill for 
nearly two weeks. 

60 



General Smith's expedition returned last Fri- 
day night, having been absent eight days, and 
travelled one hundred and fifty miles. There 
was no fighting, the enemy having scattered 
and effected their escape. They brought in, 
however, about three hundred mules and 
horses. 

Captain Atkinson (adjutant-general who 
came here with General Smith) has received 
w'ord from the department that his resignation 
has been accepted. He is still with us, but will 
leave soon. He proposes to live on a farm near 
Chicago, and engage largely in horse-raising. 

Our aide-de-camp, Lieutenant Williamson of 
the Seventy-second Ohio, which is now in the 
Fifteenth Army Corps (General Sherman) on 
the Mississippi River, has been ordered to the 
regiment by his colonel. He will probably re- 
ceive the captaincy of his company, there being 
a vacancy. Another aide, to take his place, has 
already been detailed, Lieutenant Nelson of the 
Seventieth Ohio Infantry. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Heath, of the One-hun- 
dredth Indiana, has sent forward his resigna- 
tion ; reasons given, the poor health of his wife, 
and the confusion of his business. I have my 
doubts as to its acceptance. 
61 



Yesterday morning, about day-break, my 
horse and a roan mare belonging to Captain At- 
kinson got loose in the stable, and, the bars be- 
ing down, they put out. I hunted for them all 
day, and finally, about five o'clock in the after- 
noon, in the rain, took ten cavalrymen and 
started out on the Bolivar road. At sun-down 
we came to the house of Mr. Jones, a large 
planter living five miles out. There we found 
the horses, which had been caught and tied up 
by the negroes about nine o'clock in the morn- 
ing. Found also two other horses, which had 
strayed away from Lagrange in the same way. 
This is the second time I have almost lost my 
horse. And what is singular is that every time 
he gets loose, he breaks straight for the country 
as fast as he can go, and always takes a new 
road, one that he never saw before. 

Lagrange, Tenn. 

May 1, 1863. 

Lieutenant Nelson, Seventieth Ohio, lately 
detailed as an aide, remained only a few days, 
and was relieved at his own request. Lieuten- 
ant Williamson is about leaving for his regi- 
ment, and I shall be the only aide left. I heard 
an intimation this morning that General Smith 

62 



was about to reorganize his staff, and that I too 
would be relieved. This would not surprise 
nie. The General, I imagine, entertains no 
special fancy for me. I was thrown upon his 
hands by General Denver, and I have no claim 
whatever, upon his favor. If I do not suit him 
I have no right to expect that I shall be re- 
tained. I have several times wished myself 
back in my regiment, and now I am soon to be 
gratified. 

The One-hundredth Indiana was paid the 
other day. I went to Collierville and received 
my pay to February 28th (four months) four 
hundred and sixty-five dollars. 

Collierville, Tenn. 
Friday. May 7, 1863. 

As anticipated in my last letter, I have been 
relieved from duty at General Smith's head- 
quarters. Lieutenant Williamson and I were 
relieved by the same order last Saturday. As 
yet, there is but one aide-de-camp there to take 
our places. Lieutenant Campbell of the Seven- 
tieth Ohio, who has been, for some time past, 
provost marshal of Lagrange. 

I returned to my regiment on Monday, and 
the same day father arrived unexpectedly to 
make me a visit. He left yesterday afternoon, 
63 



and will probably go np the river to-night. 
Father said he would endeavor to have me ap- 
pointed a commissary of subsistence with rank 
of captain. This is a business position, not a 
fighting one. I would not be on the staff, strict- 
ly speaking, but my place would be (if not as- 
signed to a post) at the headquarters of the 
general, and my name announced in the orders 
as one of the staff. The commissary is some- 
what independent of the general, and is as- 
signed to a division, or post, by the chief-com- 
missary of the department, or army corps. 

For the present I am removed from my regi- 
ment, being detailed as judge-advocate of a 
court-martial for our brigade, just about con- 
vening in this place. I am probably well suited 
for this position, having been engaged, for the 
last two months, in reviewing court-martial 
cases. This court will likely continue two 
months at least, if we do not move from here. 
At the end of that time I hope father will have 
secured for me the appointment of commissary 
of subsistence. 

The One-hundredth was out last week on a 
scout, and the acting adjutant, Lieutenant Fast, 
received a musket ball in the hip. It was only 
a flesh wound, and he will soon recover. 
64 



Captain George Nelson of the Twelfth is ap- 
plying for leave of absence for twenty days, to 
visit his home. 

I was paid to first of May on staff-roll be- 
fore leaving Lagrange. After retaining suf- 
ficient to supply my needs for some time, I sent 
home, by father, four hundred and thirty dol- 
lars. 

On Wednesday and Thursday the weather 
here was cold enough for an overcoat. This is 
unusual for this month in this latitude. 

COLLIERVILLE, ThNX. 

Tuesday, May I'J, 1SG8. 

I found your letter of the 8th here, on my re- 
turn from Memphis, where our court-martial 
had been to take the testimony of a sick cap- 
tain of the One-hundredth Indiana. We went 
on Saturday, and returned yesterday afternoon. 

Colonel Reub. Williams of the Twelfth In- 
diana, taken prisoner at Holly Springs and late- 
ly exchanged, returned to his regiment on Sat- 
urday. Stephen Bond came down with him 
and returned home to-day. 

We had quite a scare yesterday and last 
night. General Chalmers is south of us, nine 
or ten miles away, with six thousand men 
65 



(mounted). We feared a raid upon the rail- 
road, but could not tell exactly where it would 
l>e made. \\*e were all up and ready before 
daybreak this morning-, but were not disturbed. 
The enemy is still hovering- near, but I hardly 
think he is willing to risk much of a light. 
Most of his men are conscripts. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Heath's resignation, 
founded upon private reasons, went through to 
General Grant and was refused. 

My healtli is now first-rate. Xo more ague. 

OXE MILE FROM MeMTHIS. TeXX. 

MOXDAY MORXIXG, JCXE S, 1863. 

Left Collierville yesterday at 5 a. m. and 
reached here in the aftenioon, having marched 
with all the trains and bagg-age twenty-three 
miles. This we call a splendid day's work, 
when we consider that the brig-ade is out of 
practice, and has done but little marching for 
the past five months. The division is now all 
in and around Memphis. They say the steam- 
Iwats are ready to take us down the river to 
\'icksburg. \\"e are waiting for orders to 
march on board. It is possible we may not get 
away until to-morrow. 

Colonel Stoughton of the One-hundredth In- 
66 



diana is still quite sick, and has applied for a 
leave of absence. 

Our friends in the Twelfth Indiana are all 
well, and the troops generally are in good 
spirits. 

My health continues excellent. 



0.\ ItOAKI) STKAMKK I5EI,I,K MKMPrilS, 

Whdnksday night, Jf.\E 10, l.sn.'!. 

1 wrote you last Monday morning from our 
camp near Memphis. During the same day our 
brigaflc was loaded onto the boats, and on Tues- 
day morning at lo o'clock we moved off. We 
occupy four boats as follows ; One-hundredth 
Indiana on the B. J. Adams, Twenty-sixth Illi- 
nois on the Diana, Ninetieth Illinois on the 
Belle Memphis. On the latter boat are Colonel 
Loomis and his staff. Our brigade was the 
first of the division to leave Memphis. Owing 
to a severe storm last night, we tied up, and by 
morning several of the fleet had caught up with 
us, so that nearh' all day we had ten steamers 
insight. About three o'clock this afternoon the 
Belle Mem])his ])ushed ahead, and we srjon lost 
sight of the rest of the fleet. If nothing hap- 
pens, we shall reach Young's Point by mid- 
67 



night. Shall probably land to-morrow at some 
point up the Yazoo River. 

Our boat is one of the best and fastest now 
running on the river. We arc not at all crowd- 
ed, and thus far the trip has been very com- 
fortable and pleasant. 

We passed Helena yesterday afternoon at 
half past four o'clock. I saw there, for the 
first time, a regiment of negroes. 

We are now having heavy rains. Had a se- 
vere storm on Monday while in camp, and dur- 
ing Monday night, yesterday, and to-day, 
storm has followed storm, accompanied by the 
most terrific thunder and lightning. 

Colonel Stoughton of the One-hundredth 
was left sick in Memphis, and has a leave of 
absence. Lieutenant Fast, who was wounded 
some time since, has a leave of absence lor 
twenty days. 

Lieutenant Jones, of Company E, One-hun- 
dredth Indiana, has been appointed major of 
the Third Battalion of First Tennessee (Ne- 
gro) Artillery. 

Perhaps you remember a German boy 
named August Hitzfield, who used to live in 
our family in Fort Wayne many years ago. 
He learned to speak English with us, and 

68 



mother taught him to read and write English. 
He is now in Memphis, one of the firm of Mil- 
ler & Hitzfield, Wholesale Grocers and Com- 
mission Merchants, 95 Front Row. I heard 
Monday evening that he was in Memphis, and 
liad been inquiring for me. I went immediate- 
ly to his place of business, but found it closed. 
The next morning it rained so hard that I did 
not leave the boat. I regret very much that I 
did not see him. 

Steamer Belle Memphis, 

June 11, 1S63. 

Arrived at the place on the Yazoo River, 
where supplies are landed for General Grant's 
army, about 7 o'clock this morning. Stopped 
there some time. The G. W. Graham is with 
us, but the other boats have not yet come up. 
We are on our way to Haines' Bluff, where 
we will unload. 

I shall send this by Colonel Lucas, Six- 
teenth Indiana, who goes north to-day. 

Snyder's Bluff, Yazoo River, Miss. 

Saturday, June 13, 1863. 

I wrote you on the loth, and added a line 

on the nth. In that letter I said we were go- 

69 



ing to Haines' Bluff. This was a mistake. 
We landed at Snyder's Bluff, three miles be- 
low. Our fleet consisted of sixteen transports, 
heavily loaded, containing at least ten thou- 
sand men. 

These bluffs are very strong by nature, and 
the Confederates had expended a great deal 
of labor here, making them next to impreg- 
nable. You will recollect that they were not 
taken by assault, but were evacuated by the 
Confederates, who feared they would be cut 
off from Vicksburg. 

We are camped near the top of the ridge, 
and have a fine view of the country and the 
Yazoo River. Are about eighteen miles from 
the Mississippi at the mouth of the Yazoo. 
We can easily see, across the country, the 
smoke of the steamers going up the Mississippi. 

On the day we arrived here, there was con- 
siderable fighting in the rear of Vicksburg, as 
we could plainly hear the artillery and mus- 
ketry of the land forces, and the shelling from 
the mortar-boats. This continued, at inter- 
vals, during the whole day. There was firing 
again last night. 

General Grant's headquarters are in the rear 
of Vicksburg, about the centre of his line. He 

70 



has telegraphic communication along the 
whole line encircling the city, and also with 
Haines' and Snyder's Bluffs, and with Chick- 
asaw Bayou Landing, three or four miles be- 
low us. 

The weather is warm, but we have a good 
breeze and several springs of good water. My 
impression is that this is a healthful place. 
General Grant's army is reported very healthy. 

Your letter of June ist and one from mother 
of the 3d received yesterday. This mail was 
brought from Memphis on General Smith's 
boat. New Kentucky. 

Lieutenant Williamson, who was with me 
as aide to General Smith, was severely wound- 
ed in the leg, on May 31st, in the rear of Vicks- 
burg. Was then on General Buckland's staff. 
He was in a sitting position, when a musket 
ball entered the knee of the left leg and came 
out at the hip — a very dangerous wound. I 
understand he has been sent north. 

My friend Tucker has had a lift. Has been 
detailed on General Smith's staff as division 
quartermaster. 

Our court-martial has been dissolved, and 
T am now once more with my regiment. 

Our brigade has one thousand men a day 
71 



at work on the fortifications looking east. 
With a httle work we can make these bluffs 
impregnable. We are wonderfully well pro- 
tected by steep hills and deep ravines. 

Three divisions of General Hurlburt's army 
corps are now here. The entire corps is com- 
ing to this point. We shall remain here un- 
til Vicksburg surrenders, and perhaps some 
time after. 

General Johnson cannot raise the siege 
without first taking these bluffs, for if he goes 
by us and attacks the besieging army, we are 
in a fine flanking position and can close in be- 
hind him. 

Tremont House, Chicago, Ills. 

Sunday, June 21, 186.^. 

You will wonder why I am here. On Sat- 
urday (the 13th) I received notice of my ap- 
pointment by President Lincoln to the position 
of commissary of subsistence, U. S. Volun- 
teers, with the rank of captain, dated June ist, 
with orders to report in person to Major-Gen- 
eral Rosecrans. I also received a letter from 
father dated June 2d, saying that he had been 
to Washin.gton, urging my appointment, and 
hoping I would receive it in the course of 
72 



three or four weeks, and that when I did, it 
would be expected that I should take time 
enough to come home to have my bond (six 
thousand dollars) fixed up. I left the Yazoo 
River the next Monday on the Alice Dean,* 
and arrived at Memphis, Wednesday, at 8 p. 
M. Thirty-five miles below Memphis we were 
fired into by the Confederates — two hundred 
men and two pieces of artillery. The balls 
fllew uncomfortably thick, but we were not dis- 
abled, and succeeded in running by. One man 
(a deck-hand) was shot through by a six- 
pound ball and killed almost instantly. An- 
other was slightly wounded. One musket 
ball passed through my stateroom, but luckily 
T was not there. The Confederates were at 
a bend in the river, and to clear the bar we 
were obliged to run quite near the shore. I 
learn that the day before, boats were fired upon 
between Memphis and Cairo. It is getting 
dangerous to travel on the river. 

Left Memphis Thursday evening, made 

* A few weeks later the Alice Dean was captured and 
burned on the Ohio River by the troops of General John 
Morgan on their raid through the States of Indiana and 
Ohio. 

73 



Cairo Friday night, and last night arrived 
here. 

Have some business to attend to to-morrow, 
and shall reach home to-morrow night. If 
possible, will steal a few days to visit you. I 
imagine father knows nothing yet of my ap- 
pointment. My arrival will be a surprise. 

Do not rely too much on seeing me, but if 
it is among the possibilities, I shall be with you. 

Chicago, Ills. 
Sunday, July 5, 1863. 

I arrived home safely on Saturday morn- 
ing.* The only delay was at Harrisburgh, 
where I had to change cars in the night. 

As to my clerk ; the railroad ticket-agent 
objected to having his son go, and Ainsworth 
could not tell for a few days whether he would 
take the position, having something else just 
then in view. So yesterday I took the train 
for Chicago to see a young man named Moore. 
Since arriving here, I find that he has gone to 
Milwaukee. Shall telegraph him to meet me 
here. In the meantime I shall be on the look- 
out for others. Am afraid I shall have trouble 

* After making the visit proposed in preceding letter. 
74 



finding a suitable clerk, and that my return to 
the army will be somewhat delayed, 

Indianapolis, Ind. 

July 10, 1863. 

I wrote you last from Chicago. Remained 
there until Tuesday evening in search of a 
clerk, and succeeded, I think, in getting a very 
good one. He is a young man with two 
years' experience in business. Writes a beau- 
tiful and rapid hand, is quick at figures, and 
understands book-keeping. He seems to be 
honest and reliable, and I trust, in time, will 
make me an excellent clerk. His name is 
John F. Degnon, and his parents reside in 
Cleveland, Ohio. 

I left Fort Wayne yesterday morning, and 
my clerk joined me here in the afternoon. I 
am ready to leave, and may get away this af- 
ternoon, although General Morgan, who is in 
Indiana with eight thousand Confederates, 
may play the deuce with the railroads, and de- 
tain me here several days. This city is in 
great fear of him. There are no troops in the 
State, all having been sent, a few days since, 
to defend Louisville, Ky. The stores were 
closed yesterday at 3 p. m., and the people 



turned out to drill. All officers in the city were 
required to report at General Wilcox's head- 
quarters, I among the rest. 

We are exceedingly rejoiced at the surren- 
der of Vicksburg. 

My health continues good. 

Indianapolis, Ind. 

July, 12, 18G3. 

We are still in the midst of great excite- 
ment. A bridge was burned by the Confed- 
erates at Vienna, on the Louisville Railroad, 
and the travel on the road stopped. I under- 
stand, however, that it is now about rebuilt. 
Shall make an attempt to go through to-mor- 
row. Leave here at 7 a. m. Several regiments 
of militia were sent from here yesterday and to- 
day, to head off the raiders. Have heard of 
no engagement yet. General Morgan's force 
keeps about thirty miles from the Ohio River, 
and seems to be moving eastward. The militia 
of our State has turned out with very much 
more spirit and alacrity than that of Pennsyl- 
vania. 

Nashville, Tenn. 
Tuesday, Ji'LY 14-, 1SG8. 

Left Indianapolis yesterday morning and 
came through to Louisville all right, the 
76 



bridge having been repaired. Arrived here 
at 6 o'clock this evening. Soon after, Gen- 
eral Rosecrans and staff came in on train from 
the front. Seems to be merely on a visit. I 
reported to his adjutatnt-general, Lieutenant- 
Colonel Goddard, also to the chief-commissary, 
Lieutenant-Colonel Simmons, who ordered me 
to proceed to Tullahoma and await his arrival 
there. Says I will not be placed immediately 
on duty, but will have time to get an insight 
into the business. Seems to be a pleasant gen- 
tleman. Leave at 6 o'clock in the morning. 

Headquarters Department of the Cumberland, 

Tullahoma, Tenn., Friday, July 17, 18G3. 

Arrived here Wednesday noon. Am stay- 
ing with Howard Stansbury, a lieutenant in 
the regular army and an old schoolmate, who 
is now here in the office of the commissary of 
musters. Besides Stansbury, I found two 
other schoolmates on General Rosecrans' 
staff, Captain Thoms and Lieutenant Porter. 
Gwynne Anderson and young Fleming of Fort 
Wayne are clerks in Stansbury's office. 

General Rosecrans and Colonel Simmons 
have not returned. Look for them tomorrow. 
Have no idea where I shall be assigned. 
77 



The Thirtieth Indiana and Simonson's Bat- 
tery (Fort Wayne) are here. Have met a 
host of friends and acquaintances, many more 
than I expected to see. 

Have not yet seen Henry, nor Montgom- 
ery Hamilton. Henry is with his battery 
again. The company was so short of officers 
that it was necessary he should return. The 
battery is in General Sheridan's division on 
the front, about twenty-five miles distant. The 
railroad is running only to Elk -River, eight 
miles from here. Expect bridge to be finished 
on Sunday, when trains will probably go 
through to Stevenson, Ala. 

We need not expect any fighting very soon. 
General Bragg's army has left the State en- 
tirely. They left here in a hurry. General 
Rosecrans had flanked them, and, but for 
heavy rains and bad roads, would have made 
them fight. 

The members of General Rosecrans' staff 
number about sixty. 

The widow of Allan Battle,* who is an 

* Joel Allan Battle, Lavergne, Tenn. Graduated 
from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, 1859. Adjutant 
Twentieth Tennessee Infantrj^ C. S. A., 1861-62. Killed 
at the Battle of Shiloh, April 7, 1862. 

78 



uncompromising sympathizer with the Con- 
federates, and who has been travehng all over 
the South, was picked up near here a few 
days since by General McCook, and has been 
sent north to remain during the war. Her 
father, who lives in Chillicothe, Ohio, has fre- 
quently written to her to return home, but she 
refused, preferring to stay with her husband's 
friends. You doubtless recollect my telling 
you of Allan Battle, a class-mate in law-school 
in Cincinnati, during winter of 1 860-61. 

TULLAHOMA, TeNN. 

July 22, 1863. 

While in Nashville yesterday I saw Colonel 
vSimmons, chief-commissary, who gave me 
orders to report to Captain Blair, post-com- 
missary at Decherd, thirteen miles south of 
this place. My position there is only tempor- 
ary, and merely for the purpose of learning 
from Captain Blair the duties of a commis- 
sary. 

Returned from Nashville this morning, and 
stopped here for my traps and for my horse, 
which I bought, the other day, from Lieuten- 
ant Davies, an Oxford school-mate, who has 

79 



been ordered to Columbus, Ohio, for duty in 
tlie provost marshall's office. 

Shall go to Decherd in the morning. Am 
delighted with the prospect of having a stop- 
ping-place, for I am sick of running about 
from pillar to post. 

General Rosecrans and family are still in 
Nashville. His headquarters, which were 
here when I left, were moved yesterday to 
Winchester, fifteen miles south. 

I am staying now at headquarters of Second 
Brigade, Johnson's division. Colonel Dodge of 
Thirtieth Indiana commanding. Captain 
Ed. Edsall, Thirtieth Indiana, is the acting- 
assistant-adjutant-general for this brigade, but 
at present he is in Murfreesboro. 

Nashville, Tenn. 

July 26, 1863. 

Captain Blair intends putting me to issu- 
ing supplies to detachments and making sales 
to officers at Decherd. He supplies, from 
Decherd, three army corps, and issues only in 
bulk. I was sent here to procure the necessary 
articles to transact the business, viz; desk, 
table, scales, measures, tents, stationery, etc. 
Shall return Tuesday. 

80 



Have not seen Henry yet. The Eighty- 
eighth Indiana, Colonel Humphrey, is at 
Decherd. Saw the boys yesterday. General 
Thomas' headquarters are there, and Gen- 
eral Negley's division also. Major Lowrie, 
General Negley's adjutant-general, is a neph- 
ew of the Rev. Dr. Lowrie, of Fort Wayne. 
Am meeting more and more old friends every 
day. Yesterday, at Decherd, met an Oxford 
class-mate, who is lieutenant-colonel of the 
Fifteenth Kentucky. 

Generals Crittenden and INIcCook have gone 
home. Generals Rosecrans and Rousseau are 
here. 

Decherd, Tenn. 

July 28, 1863. 

I succeeded in getting in Nashville nearly 
everything I wanted, except platform scales, 
without which I cannot work at all. Will go 
over in the morning to Winchester to see 
Colonel Simmons in regard to getting them 
for me. Shall hardly get into business before 
the first of August. 

Henry reached Nashville while I was there, 
having been sent up after horses for his bat- 
tery. He looks well. 

81 



Montgomery Hamilton has been sick, and 
started home to-day on a visit. 

Decherd, Tenn. 

July 31, 1863. 

I have not yet started in business at this 
post, and shall not, as I have to-day been or- 
dered to the Third Brigade, Fourth Division, 
Fourteenth Army Corps. General Turchin 
commands the brigade, General Reynolds the 
division, and General Thomas the corps. 
General Turchin is a Russian by birth, and 
was formerly Colonel of the General-Staff, in 
the Imperial Guards of Russia. I am ac- 
quainted with General Reynolds, commanding 
the division. He is an old friend of father's. 
Montgomery Hamilton is on his staff as volun- 
teer aide-de-camp. 

The brigade moves to-morrow to a spot in 
the mountains called University Place, about 
twelve miles south, and a little way off the 
railroad. It is said to be a pleasant, cool place, 
with plenty of good water. My clerk is still 
with me, of course, and bids fair to make a 
very good one. 

Went over to Winchester, General Rose- 

82 



crans' headquarters, to-day, and was there 
paid lip to the first of August. 

Have not seen Henry since I left him in 
Nashville. 



HEAnnUARTERS ThIKD BRIGADE, FoLKTII DIVISION, 

Fourteenth Corps, University Place, Tenn. 
Friday, August 7, lSi)3. 

Your two letters received last Tuesday, but 
until now I have been unable to answer them, 
owing to the rush of business and the hard 
work consequent upon assuming the duties of 
my new position. Have been riding up and 
down the mountain, fifteen to eighteen miles, 
every day since I came up here. I joined the 
Ijrigade on Sunday, returned to Decherd on 
Monday, up again on Tuesday, down on 
Wednesday, and returned on Thursday. We 
are encamped upon the top of the Cumberland 
Mountains. The Second Brigade, on the site 
of the grand Southern University that was to 
have been, and our brigade about one and a 
quarter miles farther south. From Decherd 
to the foot of the mountain is four miles, up 
the mountain tw'O miles, and four more to the 
University. There is also a road to Cowan, 
seven miles. This is one of the best camping- 

83 



grounds I know of. Near our quarters is a 
very large spring of the clearest and finest 
water I ever drank. The only drawback is 
the difficulty of hauling supplies up the moun- 
tain. However, if we remain here long, they 
will be brought to us by the railroad, which 
runs up the mountain from Cowan to the coal 
mines at Tracy City. General Reynolds' 
headquarters and the First Brigade (Colonel 
Wilder) are still near Decherd. 

This place is so delightful and cool that T 
had hoped we might be permitted to spend the 
whole summer here, but I fear it is not our 
lot to enjoy such a luxury, as orders were re- 
ceived to-night to supply and pack ten days' 
rations for the men, and make preparations 
for a move. This order comes from General 
Rosecrans, and applies, I suppose, to most of 
the army. Where we go I do not know, but 
conjecture to the Tennessee River along the 
line of the Memphis-and-Charleston Railroad, 
near Stevenson, Ala. We do not expect any 
fight nearer than Atlanta, Ga. The Confed- 
erate forces are wasting fast. Deserters from 
their army are coming in every day. Sixteen 
came into our camp to-day. 

The commissary business was rather tough 

84 



for me at first, owing to the fact that the bri- 
gade had just changed commanders. General 
Crook had carried off with him his entire 
staff, and even the sergeant who was issuing- 
clerk in the commissary department. General 
Tnrchin was a stranger to the brigade, and his 
staff all strangers to him, except his adjutant- 
general. Add to this, the moving of the bri- 
gade to the top of a mountain, up wdiich the 
teams could scarcely do more than pull empty 
wagons, yet over which road the brigade must 
be supplied with provisions. The prospect 
was discouraging. But, after all, it was a good 
thing to break me in. My citizen-clerk (Deg- 
non) took hold admirably, and for a few days 
we worked early and late. We are straightened 
out now, and every thing works smoothly. 
The old issuing-sergeant has returned, and I 
have had two others detailed to assist him. 
My sales to officers, this week, amount to two 
hundred and seventy-five dollars. You did 
not know, perhaps, that I was running a re- 
tail grocery. Have not yet been able to pro- 
cure any whisky. When I do, my sales will 
increase largely. 

Henry's battery has gone on to Stevenson. 
It may be that, as the troops push forward, our 

85 



brigade may come within calling distance of 

McCook's corps, and Henry and I may meet. 

University Place, Tenn., 
Thursday, Aug. 13, 1863. 

Everything in my department is working 
smoothly, and I have no reason to complain. 
The whole army is moving forward, and there 
is a prospect of our brigade's going on Sun- 
day. 

Last Saturday about eighty pounds of pow- 
der, belonging to the Twenty-first Indiana 
Battery, exploded, through some carelessness, 
and severely injured six men, burning them 
horribly on faces, hands, and bodies, and 
burning their hair to a crisp. One of the num- 
ber has since died, and others are not expect- 
ed to survive. 

Spent last night in Decherd with Colonel 
Humphrey, whose regiment, the Eighty- 
eighth Indiana, is there. 

My friend Captain Blair, commissary of 
subsistence, is about leaving for Stevenson, 
which is now to be the depot of supplies for 
the army. 

Raining to-day. Weather has been very 
warm, but we have cool nights, and. take it 
altogether, I do not think we suffer any more 

86 



from tlie heat than you, who live in the far 

north. 

Jasper, Tenn., 
Saturday, Aug. 22, 18G3. 

Left the mountain last Monday. Stopped 
one day at Stevens' Cove at the foot of the 
mountain, two days at Battle Creek, and ar- 
rived here last evening. General Reynolds is 
here. Wilder 's brigade (mounted) is at 
Tracy City on the mountain. 

Weather warm. Have been half sick for 
past ten days, though not confined to my bed. 
Threatened with ague and a bilious attack, sim- 
ilar to that I had last spring in Lagrange. Am 
much better now. 

Have not heard from Henry since I came to 
this brigade. 

Jasper, Tenn., 
Wednesday, Aug. 2G, 1SG3. 

For the past two days I have been and am 
still, in the officers' hospital, where I can have 
quiet and rest. My appetite has returned, and 
I rode out this morning. Think I shall speed- 
ily recover now. It is not the hot weather that 
bothers us so much, as it is the want of proper 
food. Have been hard up for many supplies. 
Yesterday our brigade-baker came, and at 

87 



same time we received a stock of flour, so that 
hereafter we shall have soft, instead of hard 
bread. 

General Rosecrans was over here to see us 
yesterday, and while here received a dispatch 
that Fort Sumter had fallen and that our forces 
were bombarding Charleston. 

Jasper, Tenn., 
Saturday, Aug. 29, 1863. 

I returned from the hospital this morning. I 
am well, or nearly so, and yet I have no life or 
energy to do anything, no heart for business. 
Every little sickness I have gives me the blues, 
and at once puts me in the notion of getting 
out of the service. I must have perfect health, 
or the service is intolerable. 

General McCook's corps commenced crossing 
the river at Stevenson this morning. We shall 
probably cross here next week. Henry is in 
McCook's corps, and will probably cross the 
river to-day. 

SHELLMOUND, TeNN., 

Wednesday, Sept. 2, 1863. 
Yesterday morning we broke camp at Jas- 
per and moved forward six miles to the river, 
crossed on small ferry-boats, rowed by the men, 
and camped on this side. General Reynolds 

88 



moved his quarters over to-day, and the whole 
division is now across. Our supply-train, with 
rations to the 25th of this month, will be over 
by 12 o'clock to-night. 

General Crittenden's corps is now at Jasper, 
our old camp, and will cross here Friday'. 

Shellmound is the name of a station on the 
Nashville-and-Chattanooga Railroad, eight 
miles from Bridgeport and twenty-two miles 
from Chattanooga. The railroad here runs 
close to the bank of the Tennessee, which, by 
the way, is a much wider and deeper stream 
than I had expected to see. 

We are now in the enemy's country with only 
a few miles between us and him. There can 
be no retreating now, as it would be folly to 
attempt to recross the river in a hurry. 

Our forces intend rebuilding the large rail- 
road bridge at Bridgeport, burned by General 
Bragg in his retreat. 

I have about regained my health, 

Trenton, Georgia, 
Monday, Sept, 7, 1868. 

We marched from Shellmound, Tenn. on the 

3d, and crossed Sand Mountain, camped one 

day at the foot, and moved on five miles to this 

place. In the evening of the day we arrived I 

89 



happened to l^e riding out and came across Gen- 
eral Sheridan's division, which had just ar- 
rived from Bridgeport. Henry is in this divi- 
sion and I immediately looked him up. He is 
well and hearty. His division left the next 
day (yesterday) at noon, going up the valley 
sixteen miles to Valley Head. He belongs to 
General McCook's corps, which is moving 
towards Rome. 

General Thomas, our corps-commander, has 
his headquarters about two miles from here on 
the Bridgeport road. General Rosecrans, with 
a portion of his staff, arrived last evening. He 
will probably establish his headquarters here 
for a while. 

Trenton is the county-seat of Dade County. 
Has two churches, three stores, court-house, 
mill, and blacksmith shop. It is eighteen miles 
southwest of Chattanooga, and is connected 
with the latter place by a good railroad, which 
is finished only to this place, but was intended 
to run to some point in Alabama. We cap- 
tured, at the station, one hundred bushels of 
fine salt, belonging to the State of Georgia, and 
intended for distribution among the families of 
the soldiers. 

This movement is a very bold one, and we 

90 



are getting a long way from our supplies. 
When we cross Lookout Mountain in front of 
us, and get into the Chattanooga Valley, there 
will be two mountains, and more than twenty 
miles between us and Bridgeport, over which 
we must wagon our supplies. 

Our corps is up to time, but that of General 
McCook is behind. He should have been at 
Valley Head, Sept. 4th. His destination, as I 
said before, is Rome. General Crittenden's 
corps is on our left, moving along the railroad 
to Chattanooga. Our division will probably 
move up the valley to-morrow and cross Look- 
out Mountain at the first gap. We shall then 
be in the rear of Chattanooga and near the rail- 
road from there to Atlanta. We are on the 
eve of great events. 

P. S. Sept. 9. Still at Trenton. Cannot 
say when we shall move. It is supposed that 
General Bragg's forces are evacuating Chatta- 
nooga. 

In the Field, Georgia, 
Wednesday, Sept. 16, 1863. 

We left Trenton last Thursday. Crossed 
Lookout Mountain on Friday. As we came 
down to the foot of the mountain had a skir- 
91 



mish with the enemy. Bullets whistled freely 
over our heads. Had one man wounded in the 
arm. That night our pickets captured three 
Confederate cavalrymen. 

On Monday moved four miles forward to 
this point. The Confederates hold the gaps in 
the hills just in front of us. Our pickets and 
theirs are not three hundred yards apart. Gen- 
eral Turchin, with infantry and artillery, went 
out this morning to drive the enemy into the 
gap. Have not heard from him yet. 

Colonel Wilder's mounted brigade, which 
belongs to this division, has joined us again. 

General Crittenden's corps is on our left, his 
pickets touching ours. Headquarters of Gen- 
erals Rosecrans and Thomas are four or five 
miles back. General McCook's corps was ten 
miles to our right, but I understand it has been 
ordered back to join us. The other divisions of 
our corps are immediately on the right of ours. 

We are about sixteen miles from Chatta- 
nooga, a little west of south. 

Some of our officers expect a heavy battle 
with the Confederates. 

As we came down Lookout Mountain, had 
a splendid view of a tight going on between 
General Negley's division and the Confeder- 
92 



atcs, in the valle}', about seven miles away. We 
could plainly hear the cannonading-, and could 
see the flashes and the smoke from the guns. 
It was a fine sight, especially when viewed at 
so safe a distance. 

Chattanooga, Tunn. 
Sunday, vSei't. 27, 1863. 

I am ashamed that my last letter was dated 
a long time ago — the i6th. My excuse is that 
we have been so unsettled that there has been 
scarcely any opportunity to write. 

I shall not attempt to descril)e the battle 
( Chickamauga) . The newspapers have told the 
story better than I could. Our experiences 
have been of the roughest kind — -on the march 
frcMii four o'clock r. m. on the i8th, until the 
next morning — then a hard fight for two days, 
and a retreat of ten miles to Chattanooga. For 
four days and nights, I never took off my 
clothes. The troops are now in Chattanooga 
and have fortified the place, and I think will 
hold it. Our trains are across the river for 
safety. .; 

I saw Henry with his guns in position on 
Sunday morning, a few minutes before the sec- 
ond day's fight began. After our lines were 



broken and the trains were ordered to Chatta- 
nooga, I heard, through Captain Edsall, that 
Henry was womided in the right wrist. I 
turned back and tried to find him, but failed. 
Saw him here the next morning and took him to 
the officers' hospital, where his wound was 
dressed. Telegraphed home to father that he 
was safe, but wounded. He was sent on Tues- 
day to Bridgeport. Will probably go home as 
soon as he is able. The wound was by musket 
ball, and the bones of the wrist are injured. 
Even if he does not lose his hand, his fingers 
will probably be stiff and his hand of little use. 
Henry had two guns under his charge, which 
were more hotly engaged than the rest of the 
battery. The enemy got his guns. Captain 
Sutermeister, Eleventh Indiana Battery, says 
Henry fought jDravely and stood his ground to 
the very last, and that it was impossible to 
save his guns. Says the order was given to 
withdraw, but thinks Henry did not receive it. 
The men of the battery are warm in their praise 
of Henry's bravery, and say he fired the guns 
himself, after his men had left them. 

General Reynolds' division stood like a 
stone wall all through both days' fight. Gen- 
eral Turchin, commanding our brigade, did 
94 



splendidly. Was all the time in the thickest of 
the battle, yet so well did he handle the brigade 
that its loss was comparatively small. Turchin 
led in every charge, hat in hand. His men 
are warmly attached to him since this fight. 
He has been with them only since the first of 
August. I understand the newspaper corre- 
spondents are giving Reynolds and Turchin 
great praise for their fighting. They deserve 
it. 

Captain Lefevre, Eighty-eighth Indiana, 
and Lieutenant Phelps, Thirtieth Indiana, from 
Fort Wayne, were badly wounded, and are 
either prisoners, or dead. All others from 
Fort Wayne, including Calvin Anderson, are 
safe, and so are all my acquaintances, so far as 
heard from. 

No know'ing how long we shall remain here. 
Are strongly fortified, but all our supplies have 
to be hauled in wagons from Stevenson. The 
railroad will not be opened until the first of 
November. 



Chattanooga, Texn., 
Monday, Oct. 5.. 18G8. 

Your letters of Sept. 17th and 21st were re- 
ceived last W'Cek and should have been an- 
95 



swered sooner, but really I have been so occu- 
pied, day and night, with my reports (which I 
had no opportunity to make out wdien on the 
march), that I have had scarcely a moment's 
time. 

Have not heard from Henry since he left. 
Suppose he is now at home. My last letter 
from home, dated Sept. 23d, said that my tele- 
graphic dispatch sent Monday morning (21st) 
was received Tuesday, and up to that date, was 
the only news received as to the welfare of any 
one from Fort Wayne, engaged in the Chicka- 
mauga fight. 

Captain Sutermeister (Eleventh Indiana 
Battery) says Henry was in a very hot place 
during Sunday's fight, that ten of the horses of 
his section were shot, and five of his six drivers 
were wounded, that Henry sighted the last 
three shots himself, and fired at short range, 
with canister, lengthwise into a regiment of 
Confederates advancing on his left, mowing 
them down awfully, and some of the men say, 
bringing down the colors each time. While he 
was doing this, the enemy came upon him on 
his right and compelled him to abandon his 
guns. It was just after he had mounted his 
horse to ride away that he was shot in the right 

96 



wrist by a musket-ball, and the corporal, who 
tied a handkerchief above the wound, was in- 
stantly killed as he turned away from him. 

Our position here, at present, is a very crit- 
ical one. The Confederates have been shelling 
us vigorously all day with long-range guns, and 
their camp fires are plainly seen upon the hills 
about us. The river has risen, from the late 
rain, and washed away our trestle-bridges, and 
our pontoon-bridge is not yet finished, though 
we hope it will be to-morrow. The troops, 
horses, and mules are on half rations. All our 
surplus horses and one third the battery horses 
have been sent to Bridgeport, where horse-feed 
is plenty. There is not an ear of corn anywhere 
about here, for more than twenty-five miles. All 
our rations and forage are hauled in wagons 
from Stevenson, forty-two miles, and over a 
mountain. Last week the enemy's cavalry cap- 
tured and burned fifty of our wagons, between 
here and Stevenson, loaded with corn and cjuar- 
termaster's stores (clothing and shoes). Our 
railroad will not be open before the first of No- 
vember. We hope to hold the place, but if we 
do, we must stand a great deal of shelling, and 
go several days hungry. Our reinforcements, 
97 



we are told, are near at hand, and we trust they 
will be able to help us in opening up communi- 
cations and increasing the supply of food. 

General Thomas, you will see by the papers, 
was the great man in our late battle. He stands 
very high with the army. 

My impression is that we shall be able to 
hold our position here, and will not be forced 
to retreat across the river. 

Chattanooga, Tenn. 
Monday, Oct. 12, 18G3. 

Henry, I suppose, is at home, as I heard that 
he had obtained a leave of absence for twenty 
days, at Nashville, on the 28th September. 

All is quiet here, and we manage to get 
enough to eat. 

The only thing of interest just now is the 
entire reorganization of this army, now taking 
place. I cannot tell you much about it, as there 
is an order against giving such information. 
Suffice to say, that our old division is broken 
up, and General Reynolds is chief of staff to 
General Rosecrans, a very prominent and re- 
sponsible position. General Turchin's brigade 
has been enlarged by several regiments. All 

98 



regiments of the brigade are now Ohio troops, 
except one (Eighty-second Indiana). Ours is 
the First Brigade, Third Division, Fourteenth 
Army Corps. General Baird commands the di- 
vision, and General Thomas the corps. I shall 
probably continue with General Turchin, as he 
has requested that his staff-organization remain 
the same. Among all the changes that have tak- 
en place, it is probable that I might have secured 
a place with a division. But taken all in all, I 
prefer being with the old brigade, and with 
General Turchin, whom I like very much. 

Headquarters First Brigade, Third Division, 

Fourteenth Corps, Chattanooga, Tenx. 

Oct. 15, 1SG3. 

I have made up my mind to retire from the 
service some time during the winter. Learned 
lately that the Government looks upon quarter- 
masters, commissaries, and paymasters, as citi- 
zens, rather than as soldiers, and that they have 
rights and privileges, which soldiers have not. 
I have no doubt at all that I can resign when- 
ever I wish, and that too, without giving a 
reason. So about the first of January I shall 
express my desire to retire. 
99 

ic OF C, 



A letter from home says Henry arrived there 
on the 2d of the month. 

Received a letter yesterday from friend 
Tucker, formerly quartermaster of my old reg- 
iment. He is now in Louisville, Ky., superin- 
tending- the building of a railroad for the Gov- 
ernment. He was appointed captain and as- 
sistant-quartermaster by the President, Aug. 
13th, about two and a half months after I re- 
ceived my commissary appointment. 

It has rained here continuously for three 
days and nights — mud deep, roads bad, and 
river rising rapidly. 

Since I last wrote, I received orders assigning 
me to a brigade in General Rousseau's division, 
but General Turchin insisted that I should re- 
main with him, which I was glad to do, having 
become ac(juainted with the officers of the bri- 
gade, and got everything into good running 
order. My orders will therefore be changed, 
and I shall continue with General Turchin. 

We moved our headquarters to-day into a 
large two-story brick house, lately occupied by 
General Negley. ]\Iy office is on the second 
lloor, and I have a store-room down town, from 
which supplies are issued. 

Our brigade has seven regiments, viz; Elev- 
100 



entli, Seventeenth, Thirty-first, Thirty-sixth, 
Eighty-ninth, Ninety-second Ohio, and 
Eighty-second Indiana. 

Chattanooga, Texx. 

Oct. 28, 1863. 

I am surprised that 3"ou beHeve me to have 
l)een in the fight at Chickamauga. Where did 
you get that impression? I was around as a 
commissary of subsistence, here and there, 
along the fines, on both days, but always a lit- 
tle in the rear, and when the bullets began to 
whistle close to me and the shells to burst over 
my head. I remembered that I had an engage- 
ment elsewhere. Besides, I had too much re- 
gard for my health to remain where they were 
burning so much gunpowder. Do not fear 
that I shall expose myself unnecessarily. My 
bravery is not of the reckless kind. 

I shall start my resignation papers in a few 
days, but it will require nearly a month for 
them to go to \\"ashington and return, and then 
ten days more to settle my accounts, so that I 
shall probably not reach home before the mid- 
dle of December. 

A letter from home says Henry's wound is 
doing well. 

101 



General Grant is here. General Thomas has 
the position of General Rosecrans, and Gen- 
eral Palmer that of General Thomas (the Four- 
teenth Corps). General Hooker came in to- 
day. His army is just below here, on this side 
of the river. All quiet. Troops on half ra- 
tions. 

Chattanooga, Tenn. 

Nov. 3, 1863. 

How Strange and how amusing that you 
should continue to believe that I was in the 
battle of Chickamauga, and more than that, 
that I was trying to deceive you in regard to 
the fact. Who in the world could have started 
the story of my "bravery" and "reckless daring" 
in the late battle? The Meeker girls commend- 
ed my bravery, did they? Bless their hearts! I 
venture to say that they, in their parlor, were 
not in a much safer position than was I dur- 
ing the battle of Chickamauga. I almost be- 
lieve that all your talk of bravery has been in 
irony. 

General Turchin's brigade (ours) has again 
been engaged in daring and dangerous business. 
On the night of October 25th.. Turchin's and 
102 



Hazen's brigades crossed the river five miles 
below here in the face of the enemy, secured 
the hills on the other side, and threw over a 
pontoon-bridge, which we now hold and use. 
Our brigade returned to-day. The bridge is 
now covered by General Hooker's army. Tur- 
chin, by the way, as you must know, is a very 
popular general and very much relied on at 
headquarters. If there is any hard and dan- 
gerous work to be done, Turchin is always as- 
signed to a share of it. 

Lately the high water and drift-wood swept 
away our pontoons, but they were repaired to- 
day. The river is falling. 

Our rations are now brought by steamboats 
(two) from Bridgeport to Kelly's Ferry, eight 
miles below here, thence to Chattanooga l:)y 
wagons, crossing the river twice on pontoons. 
General Turchin's crossing, and the movement 
by General Hooker's army opened up this new 
route. We hope now to keep well supplied. 

My reports for August and September were 
forwarded to Washington some time since, 
and before they were mailed, were examined 
by Lieutenant-Colonel Paul, our corps-commis- 
sary, who pronounced them "all correct and up 

103 



snug." Am now at work on October papers, 
and shall have them off in about a week. 

In accordance with the intention expressed in 
my last letter, I sent forward my resignation 
on the first day of November. When it 
reached department-headquarters, it was re- 
ferred to Lieutenant-Colonel Simmons, chief- 
commissary. I saw Colonel Simmons this 
evening. He says he cannot approve it, but on 
the contrary, he should c/mpprove it, insisting 
that this army could not spare a single commis- 
sary- at present. He urged me to hold on until 
the present campaign was over, or at least un- 
til the emergency of short rations was past. I 
agreed to remain until matters were a little 
easier. Colonel Simmons will, therefore, hold 
my resignation until I see him again. Thus 
the matter rests. I concluded (wisely I think) 
that it was better to fall in with Colonel Sim- 
mons' views than to incur his displeasure by 
insisting that he forward my resignation now. 
His disapproval would kill it. I feel confident, 
however, that I shall be able to get out of the 
service between now and New Year's. 

The Confederates shell us every day. The 
shells burst above our house, and around it in 

104 



every direction, but so far none has struck the 

building. 

Chattanooga, Tenn. 
Thursday, Nov, 12, 1863. 

Referring to my book, I find I have not writ- 
ten you since the 3d of this month. Please par- 
don this neglect. I have been extremely busy 
getting off my papers for October. 

My citizen clerk started north yesterday and 
I am left alone. Captain Robbins, our bri- 
gade provost marshall, has been quite sick for 
the past month and has gone hoiue on sick- 
leave. My clerk, who has been very home- 
sick, determined to accompany him. I am 
sorry to lose him just now, for if my resigna- 
tion should be accepted, I might be delayed 
somewhat in looking up a clerk to close my ac- 
counts. 

Have done nothing more towards getting 
my resignation through, but shall attend to it 
to-morrow, or next day. I assure you I shall 
do everything in my power to achieve success, 
for I am very anxious to return to civil life. 
My prospects for a good business position de- 
mand that I should be at home before the first 
of January. 

Resignations here are quite common. Many 

105 



of my friends and acquaintances have retired. 
Colonel Lane, Eleventh Ohio, of our brigade; 
Colonel Humphrey, Eighty-eighth Indiana ; 
and Captain Edsall, Thirtieth Indiana; the 
first two for business reasons, the third on ac- 
count of poor health. 

The long-wished-for paymasters have ar- 
rived, and in the course of a week our troops 
will be paid up to 31st of October. 

Our communications with the North are now 
very good; railroad to Bridgeport, steamboat 
to Kelly's Ferry, eight miles below here, thence 
to Chattanooga in wagons. Boats cannot run 
up to this place because of the enemy's bat- 
teries on Lookout Mountain. Rations are com- 
ing up very well. Our next issue will be -full 
rations. 

I am sorry that I cannot accept your invita- 
tion to Thanksgiving dinner. Uncle Sam has 
a prior claim upon my time and will insist on 
my remaining here and dining with his happy 
family, 

Chattanooga, Tenn. 
Sunday, Nov. 15, 1863. 

Lieutenant Porter at headquarters told me 
that Henry's resignation has been received. I 

106 



am glad Henry has resigned, for, with a lame 
right hand, the service would be a hard life in- 
deed. 

I met on the street to-day Arthur Reed, 
nephew to Hugh B. Reed. He has a stock of 
goods at Nashville, and is trying to arrange to 
ship a portion to this point for sale. 

Received three months' pay to-day. 

If my resignation leaves here by i8th No- 
vember, I ought to get it back by 8th Decem- 
ber. I shall then be relieved from duty, and 
eight or ten days will be required to finish up 
my papers. I shall consider myself extremeh' 
fortunate if I get away as soon as the 20th of 
December. 

Weather good. Troops still on three-quarter 
rations. 

Everything points to a movement of some 
kind to-morrow. 

There is a report that General Sherman's 
army, with my old regiment. One-hundredth 
Indiana, has reached Stevenson. 

Chattanooga, Temn. 
Thursday, Nov. 19, 1863. 

I saw Lieutenant-Colonel Simmons to-day 
and had him approve my resignation, which I 
107 



then took myself to departme:-: . c . ' ..larters. 
It will >::in :rr Washington in to-morrow's 
mail. If aciexi on tl-ere immediately, an an- 
swer may be expected abc-i:t loth December. 
The resignation was dated Oct. 31s:. and was 
forwarded, without comment, tlirough the dif- 
ferent headquarters. On reacliing department 
headqiianers it was referred to Lieutenant- 
Colonel Simmons, chief -commissar}*. His e:> 
dorsement was dated t'>niay. and was in these 
words: " Respectfully forwarded, approved. I 
have detained this psper some rime, in hrc-es I 
might be able to persuade Captain Williams to 
withdraw it. but without avaiL" This endorse- 
ment shovs'S that I v.as worth 10 the commis- 
saxv Ger^rtn.ent at .east a sma— en^rz id ^^"~ 
suade n:e :: remair. They thought at depart- 
ment headquarters tliat it would probably be 
accerted at \\ asnmgtciL 

X re reaS'Ons i Sct irrm v.'erei 
"First: General ill health, occasioned by fre- 
quent derangement in the action of the liver 
and diirestive organs, renders me imnt for 



^C- 



Second: Idaiiers at home of a pri-.-ate and 
delica.:e nature, which require my personal 
attention, render it not oniy desirable, but 



io« 



make it an absolute dut}*, that I should at once 
withdraw from the service." 

Chattaxooga, Tenx. 
Friday, Xoy. 27. 1S63. 

The last fev/ days have been eventful for this 
arm^-. On the 23d, about noon, the entire army 
moved out to the line of our out-posts, and 
drew the fire of the enemy's batteries on Mis- 
sionary Ridge. On the 24th all was quiet in 
front, but on the right General Hooker 
stormed and took Lookout Point, and General 
Sherman crossed the river on our extreme left, 
at the point where ^lissionary Ridge touches 
it. On the 25th General Sherman opened the 
fight on the left and kept it up until after noon. 
At 3 o'clock p. M. the Army of the Cumberland 
moved in the centre toward the Ridge, drove 
the Confederates from their breastworks at the 
foot of the hills, and steadily climbed the steeps, 
without a single halt. In one hour and a half 
from the time they started, they were on the 
top. completely routing the Confederates, and 
capturing thirty-five pieces of artillery and 
thousands of prisoners. It was the most bril- 
liant feat of arms during the war. With hun- 
dreds of other spectators I stood upon the para- 

109 



pet of Fort Wood and enjoyed a magnificent 
view of tlie wliole battle — a grand panorama. 
The day was clear and bright, and with the aid 
of a glass, our flags and our bayonets could be 
seen slowly and surely climbing their way to 
the top. I might continue in the service all my 
life and never have such a fine view of a battle 
again. 

General Turchin and staff are safe. The bri- 
gade has now gone in pursuit of the enemy. 
Turchin's brigade alone captured ten pieces of 
artillery. 

Our forces lost heavily in officers. I rode 
over the battle-field yesterday, and went to the 
extreme left where Sherman's army was en- 
gaged. My old brigade, Colonel Loomis com- 
manding, was in the fight. Did not see them, 
for they had gone in pursuit of the enemy, but 
in the hospital, nearby, I found many of my 
ofiicer-friends, lying wounded. Lieutenant- 
Colonel Heath, wounded in the breast by a 
shell, and one captain and three lieutenants 
wounded, all of the One-hundredth Indiana. 
Captain Harlan of the One-hundredth was 
killed. Of the Twelfth Indiana, Captain Ave- 
line and Casper Miller (brother to George Mil- 
no 



ler), both of Fort Wayne, were killed. The 
wounded were three captains, one lieutenant, 
and Lucien Barbour of Fort Wayne. The lat- 
ter was shot in the cheek, carrying away a part 
of the lower jaw and three teeth. The field- 
officers and Captain Nelson, Lieutenant Go- 
down, and Jim Bird are safe. Captain Nelson 
is said to have behaved very bravely. I also 
saw Adjutant Bond, who was struck on the 
head by a splinter from a tree, and for a while 
rendered unconscious. He will doubtless re- 
cover. I found several officers, wdiom I knew 
when in General Sherman's army, viz; Brig- 
adier-General Corse, formerly Lieutenant- 
Colonel of the Sixth Iowa, Lieutenant-Colonel 
Gilmore, of the Twenty-sixth Illinois, and 
Major Ennis, of the Sixth Iowa. My old bri- 
gade is in Ewing's division. 

I saw Captain Aveline's grave. He was 
killed instantly by a ball through the head. 

I have not attempted any description of the 
battle, but refer you to the newspaper accounts. 
Our victory was complete, and the results must 
be very important. We cannot any longer at- 
tribute General Grant's success chiefly to good 
luck. Our prisoners number six thousand 
five hundred, and are still coming in. 
Ill 



Three steamboats are now running between 
Chattanooga and Bridgeport. 

Henry's resignation was accepted on the 23d. 

Chattanooga, Tenn. 
Tuesday, Dec. 8, 1863. 

Stephen Bond has been here, and has taken 
home with him his brother, Adjutant Bond, 
who was shghtly wounded, and is now doing 
well. Mr. Barbour also came for his wounded 
son, and Mr. Aveline for the body of his son, 
Captain Aveline. They left, two or three days 
ago. 

The Twelfth and One-hundredth went with 
General Sherman to the relief of General Burn- 
side at Knoxville. 

Day before yesterday General Turchin, with 
his staff, went to the top of Lookout Mountain. 
Splendid view. The Confederates from that 
point could see everything we did. We saw 
there General Hooker, who, for the first time, 
went up to take a view of the ground he had 
so gallantly fought over, on the 24th Novem- 
ber. 

Chattanooga, Tenn. 
Sunday, Dec. 13, 1863. 

Father writes that Henry intends to sail for 
Europe on the IGtli with Mr. Judd of Chicago, 
112 



our Minister to Berlin. Henry will join Mont- 
gomery Hamilton, and they will study at some 
German University during the winter. 

Being without a clerk, I made out alone my 
reports for last month. My business is so sys- 
tematized that I can get along fully as well now 
without a clerk as I did formerly with one. 

My friend Tucker, assistant-quartermaster, 
is now in the Railroad department at Nashville. 

Nothing new here. All quiet. 

Chattanooga, Tkxn. 
Saturday, Dec. 19, 1S63. 

Our old Ijrigade passed through here yester- 
day on their way from Knoxville to Bridge- 
port. These troops have seen very hard ser- 
\\ce, ha\ing marched almost constantly since 
leaving Memphis, making in all, between seven 
and eight hundred miles. The men have but 
one blanket each, are without overcoats, and 
many are barefooted, and this too, when the 
weather is cold enough to freeze hard every 
night. The march from here to Knoxville was 
made without wagons, and the men therefore 
had no tents to protect them, and no utensils to 
cook with. During the last three weeks only 
four days' rations were issued to them, the bal- 
113 



aiice being taken from the country (destitute as 
it is), through which they passed. Yet, I am 
told, the men stood it all without a murmur. 
Such suffering was necessary to save Burn- 
side and Knoxville. The privations of our 
brave men were, as we now know, not endured 
in vain. 

The officers say the most of the people be- 
tween here and Knoxville are undoubtedly 
loyal. 

Colonel Loomis, commanding brigade, Col- 
onel Williams (Twelfth), Major Johnson 
(One-hundredth), and other officers (ten in 
all) took dinner with me yesterday. Major 
Johnson and five others stayed with me all 
night. I also met Major Baldwin and Lieuten- 
ant Godown of the Twelfth, but missed seeing 
Captain Nelson. Colonel Williams spoke in 
the highest praise of the conduct of Captains 
Nelson and Aveline in the late fight, and Col- 
onel Loomis commended in the warmest 
terms the good behavior of the One-hundredth 
during the battle. 

The men look hardy and well, but are some- 
what pulled down by their severe march. 

It is not known exactly where the brigade 

114 



will winter. I suppose at Bridgeport, or Hunts- 
ville. 

Chattanooga, Tenn. 

Dec. 30, 1863. 

On the 23d my resignation papers were re- 
turned from Washington to General Thomas 
with an endorsement requesting that I be re- 
lieved from duty in order that I might settle my 
accounts. Yesterday I received General 
Thomas' order relieving me from duty. Lieu- 
tenant Donahoe, formerly acting-commissary 
of the brigade, wdiich was merged into ours, 
takes my place to-morrow. After I settle my 
accounts, which will recjuire five or six days, I 
shall have nothing to do but await the accept- 
ance of my resignation. I shall, therefore, 
probably obtain a leave of absence. May go to 
Nashville to visit my friend Tucker, captain 
and assistant-quartermaster, and perhaps to 
Louisville. 

Chattanooga. Tenn. 
Wednesday, Jan. G, 1S64-. 

My successor entered upon duty on the 31st 
December, and since then I have been busily 
engaged, straightening out my business. My 
115 



clerk, who has been absent since Nov. loth, re- 
turned last night. He will remain with me 
until my papers are completed. After that, he 
will go to Captain Blair, depot commissary at 
Bridgeport. By the loth I hope to have my 
accounts off. Shall then ask for a leave of ab- 
sence, to await the result of my resignation. I 
might go straight to Fort Wayne, but I have 
two horses (one Henry's, the other mine) to 
tlispose of, either to sell or, if possible, to take 
north. This will require some little time and 
management. 

Chattanooga, Tenn. 
Wednesday, Jan. 13, 186-i. 

My accounts were finished last night and 
mailed to-day. I shall re-forward my resigna- 
tion, and the acceptance of it will probably 
reach here between the 5th and loth of Feb- 
ruary, until which time I am still an officer and 
receive pay as such. 

There is nothing for me to do here, and I 
can, if 1 choose, obtain a leave of absence. I 
shall wait, however, until one of Henry's 
horses, out at Pikevillc (sixty miles), which I 
have sent for, comes in, and has been disposed 
of. Henry's other horse and my mare cannot 
116 



be sold here to any advantage, and I shall there- 
fore try hard to take them north. 

Railroad-trains are expected to run here in 
a few days. 

I am still staying at the headquarters of 
General Turchin. 

Chattanooga, Te\x. 
Tuesday, Jax. 19, 18G4. 

T have asked for a leave of absence for 
twenty days, while awaiting the action of the 
Secretary of War upon my resignation. 

Have also applied for permission to take 
home with me two horses, which I trust will 
be granted. The horses will make my trip 
home slow and tedious, as I wish to attend per- 
sonally to their shipment from point to point. 
Hope to get away from here by Thursday. 

The railroad was finished to this place on the 
14th, and since then supplies have been arriv- 
ing in great abundance. Passenger-trains are 
now running regularly between Nashville and 
Chattanooga. There is much energy manifest- 
ed since General Grant took command. 

Nashville, Texn. 
Moxday, Jax. 25, 18G4. 

I obtained leave of absence for twenty days, 
beginning on the 23d, and if notice of the ac- 

117 



ceptance of my resignation does not reach Chat- 
tanooga, at the expiration of that time, I shall 
have it extended, from time to time, until the 
matter is definitely settled. Left Chattanooga 
with my horses at five o'clock Saturday morn- 
ing. Reached here Sunday morning. Am 
waiting here for an opportunity to ship the 
horses to Louisville. All the trains are run- 
ning full with veteran soldiers, going home on 
furlough. May have to wait here a day or two 
longer. 

My friend. Captain Tucker, assistant-quar- 
termaster, is here on duty at the railroad de- 
pot. I am staying with him, which makes it 
pleasant for me. As usual, I have run across 
many old acquaintances. Met this morning 
Charles De Graw, of New Jersey, now a lieu- 
tenant in the Thirteenth United States Infan- 
try. I was with him in the Edgehill school, at 
Princeton, more than ten years ago, and had 
never seen him from that time until now. 

Louisville, Ky. 
Thursday, Jan. 28, 1864. 

The horses were shipped from Nashville, 
Tuesday, on steamboat America, with the Sev- 
enty-fourth Ohio. Yesterday I came here by 
118 



train. The boat bringing the horses will hardly 
reach here before Saturday or Sunday. 

CiNXiNNATi, Ohio, 
Wednesday, Feb. 3, 1864. 

When in Louisville, I thought of going home 
by way of Indianapolis. Afterwards conclud- 
ed it would be more convenient to ship the 
horses from here, so I let them come through 
on the same boat on which I placed them at 
Nashville, and I followed on the mail-boat, ar- 
riving here Monday morning. Shipped horses 
to-day to Lima, Ohio, and I shall start in the 
morning at seven o'clock. 

Have put in the time pleasantly, visiting 
friends. 

Fort Wayne, Ind. 
Friday, Feb. 5, 1864. 

Left Cincinnati yesterday morning, and 
reached home at ten o'clock at night (on a 
freight train with the horses from Lima). 

After being thirteen days on the way with 
my horses, I am here all safe and sound. I 
hope I am thankful for the good providence 
that has attended me during the long seven- 
teen months of army life. 

119 



COMPILED FROM THE RECORDS 

of the 

WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, 

D. C. 

Edward P. Williams entered service as First 
Lieutenant and Adjutant of the One-hundredth 
Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Aug. 28, 1862. 
Regiment organized at Fort Wayne, Ind., and 
mustered in, Sept. 10, 1862. Left State for 
Memphis, Tenn., Nov. 10, 1862. Attached to 
Second Brigade, District of Memphis, Thir- 
teenth Corps, Department of the Tennessee, 
November and December 1862. First Brigade, 
First Division, Right Wing, Thirteenth Corps, 
y\rmy of the Tennessee to January, 1863. First 
Brigade, First Division, Sixteenth Corps, 
Army of the Tennessee, to June, 1863. Served 
detached as aide-de-camp to Colonel John A. 
McDowell commanding First Brigade, Jan. i, 
1863 to Feb. 28, 1863, and on staffs of Generals 
J. W. Denver and W. Sooy Smith, command- 
ing First Division, Sixteenth Corps, to June, 
1863. 

SERVICE. 
General Grant's Central Mississippi cam- 
paign, operations on the Mississippi-Central- 
120 



Railroad to the Yocknapatalfa River, Nov. 26, 
1862 to Jan. 10, 1863. At Collierville, Tenn. 
and along Memphis-and-Charleston Railroad 
until June. Movement to Vicksburg, Jnne 
7-17. Appointed and commissioned Captain 
and Commissary of Subsistence, U. S. Volun- 
teers, to date from Jnne i, 1863, and ordered 
to report to General Rosecrans commanding 
Department of the Cumberland. Assigned to 
staff of General John B. Turchin. commanding 
Third Brigade, Fourth Division, Fourteenth 
Corps, Army of the Cumberland, to October, 

1863, and First Brigade,* Third Division, 
Fourteenth Corps to February, 1864. Partici- 
pated in the Chickamauga campaign Aug.- 
Sept. 1863, battle of Chickamauga Sept. 18-21, 
siege of Chattanooga Sept. 24-Xov. 23. battles 
of Lookout Mountain Nov. 20-24, Chattanooga 
Nov. •23-25, Missionary Ridge Nov. 25. On 
duty at Chattanooga until February. 1864. 
Absent on leave until May. Resigned May 19. 

1864, and honorably discharged from service. 



* In the reorganization of the Army of the Cumber- 
land, October 1863, General Turchin's brigade was made 
the First in the Third Division, Fourteenth Corps. 

121 



Edward P. Williams, Captain C. S., U. S. Vo 
Elected a Companion of the First Class 
in the 
Military Order of the Loyal Legion of tl 
United States, through the Commandery 
of the State of Ohio, 
October 3, 1888. 
Transferred to the Commandery of the Sta 
of New York, November 25, 1890. 
(Insignia No. 6434.) 



122 



''§k 






-. ,<<> 



.^- -X. 






"^ -Ct, 






-^^ 



^^ •- 



%■ ^^^■' 



<^%' 
^■■^r. 



A^ 



,0 









^..^ 



'-...^-^ 



nO o. 



o"v -"Cf. 






,0 o. 



v\- •/', 






* 






,V c ^ ^ '- « 'o. 



A^ 






,S 'O. 



.•■'<-' 



A^ 











/ ,, 






"-^^ 


C^^ 




x^ 


^r. 



aV^ 



^-y.^V' 



.^'-^ 







1 N " 


;,' ■^. 




x\^' '■' 



~^'' 



■-^'• 









:,. ,>^ 






'y- v^ 



a^ -<,, 



■X^" ■■^v. 



aV -, 



